Unusual Aerial Sightings - Base Squadron, Pearce

This document is a compilation of correspondence and reports maintained by the Base Squadron, Pearce, R.A.A.F., regarding 'Unusual Aerial Sightings' in Western Australia between 1951 and 1960. The file contains various reports from civilians, police, and meteorological services, documenting sightings of objects described as 'flying saucers,' lights, and explosions. Notable incidents include a sighting in 1957 near Eucla, Mundrabilla Station, and Madura, where witnesses described a cigar-shaped object leaving a trail of blue smoke. Another report from 1957 details an explosion and bright green light in the vicinity of Marble Bar. The file also includes correspondence with individuals like Mr. D. Pike, who reported sightings in 1956, and Mr. Charles Aubrey Bolton, who reported an object in 1951. The R.A.A.F. consistently coordinated with the Western Australia Police Department to obtain standardized reports from witnesses. Official responses often suggested meteorological phenomena, such as temperature inversions or the planet Jupiter, or noted the absence of R.A.A.F. aircraft in the vicinity. The file reflects the administrative process of the R.A.A.F. in collecting, investigating, and documenting these reports, often forwarding them to the Department of Air in Melbourne for further analysis.