Project 10073 Record: Radar UFO Sighting (U)

This document collection details a series of radar and visual sightings of unidentified objects occurring between July 13 and July 14, 1965, in the vicinity of Bellefontaine, Findlay, and Stubenville, Ohio. The initial report originated from a civilian call to a radio station in Lima, Ohio, regarding an object hovering over a shopping center in Findlay. Subsequently, the 664th Radar Squadron at Bellefontaine AFS tracked objects on their FPS-6 and FPS-26A height-finder radars. The radar data indicated objects at high altitudes, ranging from 62,200 to 95,800 feet. Interceptors were vectored to the area but were unable to establish radar or visual contact with the primary radar targets, although they did observe a light plane and later identified a high-altitude balloon with a gondola. The Foreign Technology Division evaluated the reports and concluded that the radar targets were real but were, in all probability, high-altitude balloons. This conclusion was supported by the fact that the targets' speeds were too low for aircraft and their altitudes were consistent with balloon capabilities, noting that at least two high-altitude balloons had been reported lost shortly before the sightings. Major Quintanilla, in reviewing the case, determined that the visual sighting reported by the civilian was likely distinct from the radar targets. The documentation includes internal Air Force message traffic, formal project records, and an evaluation letter from the Foreign Technology Division.