Unidentified red light over Alaska in 1953

Summary

In February 1953, several military personnel at Elmendorf Air Base in Alaska observed a glowing red object slowly rising before suddenly disappearing. The phenomenon was seen for five to ten minutes and described as a round light with no visible sound or trail. A jet was sent to intercept it, but no contact was made. Although a weather balloon was considered, no launches were recorded in the area and radar also failed to detect anything. A similar sighting occurred the previous night, adding to the mystery.

The object was observed by six airmen from the 39th Air Police Squadron, who described it in detail. The red light initially moved slowly but accelerated when the jet was launched. It eventually ascended vertically and disappeared into the clouds. Although natural explanations like falling stars or planets were ruled out, the object remained unidentified. The officer in charge concluded it was still a mystery, with no clear explanation.