Project 10073 Record — Mekoryuk, Alaska, 20 Oct 66

On October 20, 1966, at approximately 21:0650L, a civilian witness in Mekoryuk, Alaska, reported observing an unidentified aerial phenomenon. The witness described the object as a bluish-colored light, comparable in appearance to an electric light bulb. The object was observed for a duration of two hours, moving slowly in a southwesterly direction. During the sighting, the object reportedly turned a bright red color before disappearing behind clouds and never reappearing. The witness noted that there was no sound, nor was there any trail or exhaust vapor observed. The witness estimated the object's altitude at 17,000 feet and its speed at approximately 0.5 miles per hour. According to the report, the sighting was witnessed by a large portion of the local population, including children, totaling approximately 250 people. The official conclusion provided in the Project 10073 record suggests the object was possibly a balloon. The analysis notes that the description is consistent with balloon observations and references similar reports from the area involving large balloons, possibly originating from Japan, noting that transonic balloons have been reported to have landed in Alaska. The witness also provided additional context regarding the reporting process, mentioning difficulties in contacting the National Guard due to radio signal issues and their reliance on the FAA in Bethel for reporting emergencies.