UFO sighted by pilots over Alabama in 1952

Summary

In October 1952, two U.S. Air Force pilots reported an unidentified flying object (UFO) over Elberton, Alabama. The incident occurred on October 24 at 20:26 hours, when 1st Lt. Edward J. Rau, navigating a T-11 at 7500 feet, observed a bright orange object moving at an extremely high speed. The object appeared about 10 to 15 degrees above the horizontal plane of the aircraft and disappeared after leaving a light streak. According to the report, the object showed no floating characteristics and moved in a perfectly straight line with a constant climb of approximately 5 degrees.

The report classifies the case as "B-2," indicating no conventional explanation was found. Although balloon and aircraft options were considered, the pilot stated he had never seen anything similar. The object made no sound and its speed exceeded that of an F-80. The report includes drawings and a detailed description from the observer, who had extensive night flight and combat experience over Korea. Despite limited visibility due to haze and smoke, the pilot accurately described the object's trajectory and behavior, adding credibility to the sighting.