Project 10073 Record Card — Sighting Incident, Rome, Italy, 20-22 August 1963

This document compiles reports and correspondence regarding an Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon (UAP) sighting that occurred on the night of August 20, 1963, in Rome, Italy. The primary witness, a chauffeur for the President of the Italian Republic, reported observing a hat-shaped object while driving near the hunting grounds of Castelporziano. The witness described the object as having a tower on top and three portholes, emitting a light that was phosphorescent and cloudlike. The object reportedly hovered, vibrated, and moved horizontally before changing its orientation from horizontal to vertical and departing at high speed toward the West. The witness noted a light whistling sound, similar to a distant jet or an electric motor. Following the event, the witness reported finding green spots on his vehicle, which disappeared after washing. An investigation conducted by Italian Air Force officials and subsequent inquiries at the nearby Fiumicino Airport failed to identify any conventional aircraft or meteorological phenomena that could explain the sighting. The U.S. Air Force, through the Foreign Technology Division, reviewed the report and concluded that the evidence was insufficient to determine a cause, suggesting the possibility of a mirage or light refraction. The case was forwarded to Dr. J. Allen Hynek for further analysis.