Declassified UFO / UAP Document
Correspondence Regarding UFO Sighting and Satellite ECHO I Identification
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AI-Generated Summary
An amateur astronomer in San Diego reported UFO sightings in September 1963. The Air Force determined the object was the ECHO I satellite and attributed the witness's observations of erratic movement to optical phenomena.
This collection of documents details a series of UFO reports submitted by a 23-year-old amateur astronomer in San Diego, California, during September 1963. The witness, who referred to the object as 'SOL' (Sidural Object), reported observing an object with erratic, 'drunk' flight characteristics, including zig-zagging and periodic 'occultation' (extinction of light). The witness claimed to have tracked the object using a 6-inch reflecting telescope and a compass, and reported the sightings to local radio station KOGO and the FAA. The Air Force, specifically the Foreign Technology Division and the 22nd Bombardment Wing, investigated the reports and concluded that the sightings were consistent with the orbital passage of the ECHO I satellite. Official correspondence from the Air Force to the witness provided the ECHO I schedule for San Diego and recommended that the witness consult the book 'Light and Color' by A.E. Minnaert to better understand optical illusions and atmospheric phenomena that might account for the perceived distortions in the satellite's flight path. The documents include internal military routing slips, a Project 10073 record card, and the witness's own 'Observations and Discovery Report.'
At first appearance, it seemed to be a satellite, but, its erratic, sometimes "drunk" movements in its course, would seem to dissolve that theory quickly.
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Official Assessment
The sightings coincide with the passage of satellite ECHO I.
The Air Force concluded that the reported UFO sightings in San Diego between September 10-20, 1963, were attributable to the passage of the ECHO I satellite. The witness was advised to consult literature on optical phenomena to explain the perceived erratic movements and distortions.
Witnesses
- [illegible]amateur astronomer
Key Persons
- Mrs. GaiserHq USAF SAF-OIPB
- A. E. MinnaertAuthor of 'Light and Color'
- Lee ShoblomRadio personality