UFO Observation, Near Santa Barbara, California, 18 Jan 65

This document contains a series of correspondence regarding a UFO sighting reported by a witness at Camp D-37, Hole Cochise, near Santa Barbara, California, on January 18, 1965. The witness observed an object between 9:00 and 9:05 P.M. that initially appeared to be a falling star or plane. As the object neared, it changed color to red-orange and exhibited a tapered, flame-like appearance at the back, which the witness compared to heated glass marbles with a crackled texture. The object performed a slight wavering motion, made a direct left turn, and then returned to the sky. The witness estimated the object's size to be comparable to a car headlight. The Foreign Technology Division (FTD) of the Air Force Systems Command reviewed the report and suggested that the object was similar to a jet aircraft with an afterburner. However, the FTD noted inconsistencies in this assessment, specifically regarding the witness's claim that the object was extremely close to the observation point. Because the witness did not provide additional requested information after 90 days, the case was treated as a possible aircraft observation, and the FTD recommended that an FTD Form 164 be completed to facilitate a more thorough evaluation.