An object in an aerial photograph of Manhattan

Summary

In March 1950, an aerial photograph of Manhattan was received showing an object in the sky. Two photographic analysts and an astronomer concluded that the object was the Moon. Its unusual shape was due to the Moon's movement during a long exposure (five to ten minutes). Additionally, the variation in brightness was attributed to clouds partially covering the Moon at different times. The image also showed a light streak typical of a moving vehicle, confirming it was not a supernatural phenomenon.

The photograph was taken from the Queensboro Bridge with an 8x10 camera. The photographer did not notice any object in the sky before or after taking the image and did not believe it was a photographic defect. Although the photographer had intended to send the image to the Air Force, he had forgotten about it until recently. The report concluded no further investigation was needed, as no inexplicable phenomenon was identified.