UFO sighted with telescope in Seattle and Renton

Summary

A round, white object was observed through a four-power telescope in the area of Seattle and Renton, Washington, on May 11, 1953. Two civilian observers reported the sighting, one estimating the object was at 10,000 feet and the other at 20,000 feet. The object moved erratically and eventually disappeared over the horizon. Although no photos or physical evidence were collected, high-altitude balloons were reported in the vicinity, matching the direction and heading of the object. The official conclusion was that it was a balloon, but the description of its movement and lack of sound or trail left room for doubt.

The report notes that observers used a rifle scope and one described the object as glowing. Although several aircraft were in the area, none were at high altitude, reinforcing the balloon hypothesis. However, the discrepancy in altitude estimates and the unusual movement of the object caused some confusion. In the end, the case was closed with the explanation of a balloon, but the details of the sighting remain intriguing for UFO researchers.