Project 10073 Records — Columbus, Ohio (May 1966)

This document is a compilation of Project 10073 records concerning multiple Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) sightings reported in the Columbus, Ohio area during May 1966. The records consist of standardized Project 10073 forms, correspondence from Major Hector Quintanilla, Jr. of Project Blue Book, and weather/wind data logs. The reports document various civilian sightings, including descriptions of lights, objects with protrusions, and stationary or moving lights. Investigating officers, primarily Captain James D. Ballsmith of the 840th Combat Support Group at Lockbourne Air Force Base, consistently evaluated these reports. Many of the sightings were concluded to be aircraft, meteors, or astronomical bodies such as the Moon or Jupiter. In several instances, the Air Force sent FTD Form 164 questionnaires to witnesses to gather more detailed information, but many were not returned, leading to conclusions of 'insufficient data for evaluation.' The correspondence highlights the Air Force's systematic approach to investigating these reports, often cross-referencing them with local air traffic data from Port Columbus Airport and Lockbourne AFB. The records reflect a period of high activity in the region, with the Air Force attempting to reconcile civilian reports with known military and civil aviation operations.