Project 10073 Record — Litchfield, Nebraska, 18 October 1965

On 18 October 1965, at approximately 1500Z, a civilian witness in Litchfield, Nebraska, observed an unidentified aerial phenomenon while performing chores. The witness described the object as olive green in color, round, and approximately the size of a wash tub, featuring a tripod-like effect on its bottom. The object was observed for three to five minutes, during which it was seen descending from the east before ascending rapidly in a northwesterly direction and disappearing into low-hanging clouds. The weather at the time was described as misty with light rain. The witness reported the event to a neighbor, who assisted in drafting a letter to the Grand Island Weather Bureau. This report was subsequently forwarded to the Air Force at Sioux City, where an officer named Harbert was contacted. The case was investigated under Project Blue Book. Official Air Force analysis concluded that the object was a balloon, noting that the reported appearance might have been distorted by atmospheric conditions. The final assessment suggested the sighting was likely a balloon or debris caught in the wind. No physical evidence was recovered, and no radar contact was established.