Declassified UFO / UAP Document
UFO Sighting, Shirley, Massachusetts, Nov 64
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AI-Generated Summary
A civilian reported a circular, smoke-trailing object in Shirley, Massachusetts, in November 1964. The Air Force concluded the object was likely a meteor or satellite decay, noting that insufficient data prevented a more precise identification.
This document contains a series of correspondence regarding a UFO sighting reported by a civilian in Shirley, Massachusetts, around November 18, 1964. The witness described an object traveling at high speed from the northwest, which appeared circular, emitted sparks, and left a trail of smoke, resembling a 'roman candle' before burning out. The witness contacted the Air Technical Intelligence Center at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base to inquire if the object was a meteor or a UFO. The Foreign Technology Division (FTD) evaluated the report and concluded that the description was consistent with either a meteor or a satellite decay. The FTD noted that the witness failed to provide critical information, such as the duration of the sighting and the specific direction of travel, which made a definitive evaluation impossible. The Air Force provided a standard response to the witness, explaining that satellite decays can be distinguished from meteors by their easterly flight path and longer duration. The file includes the original sighting report form, the witness's letter, and the official responses from the Air Force.
It remined me very much of roman candels. It was circular in size and also there were sparks coming from it as it sped through the atmosphere. Also it left a trail of smoke behind it then suddenly it just seemed to burn out.
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Official Assessment
The object which you have described is similar to either a meteor or satellite decay.
The sighting was likely a meteor or satellite decay. The witness failed to provide essential information such as duration and direction of travel, which prevented a firm evaluation. Satellite decays are noted to have an easterly component and longer duration than meteor observations.
Witnesses
- [illegible]Civilian
Key Persons
- Maston M. JacksMajor, USAF, Chief, Pictorial Branch, Public Information Division, Office of Information