PROJECT 10073 RECORD CARD — Merced, California, 10 April 1964

On April 10, 1964, at 1140 hours, a series of radar contacts were reported 30 miles east of Merced, California. The initial report indicated 6 to 12 unidentified objects at altitudes ranging from 60,000 to 90,000 feet and higher. These objects were observed following a 60-mile race-track pattern. In response, F-106 interceptors were scrambled from Castle Air Force Base. While the pilots were able to achieve radar lock-on, they were unable to maintain it, and no visual contact was initially made due to the extreme altitudes. Additional aircraft, including U-2 type aircraft with pilots in pressure suits, were deployed to investigate. Subsequent reports from the Command Post and NORAD concluded that the objects were balloons, with a U-2 pilot providing visual confirmation of this identification. A memo dated April 13, 1964, from the Public Information Division, noted that the balloon explanation was confirmed by the final U-2 flight.