UFO Encounter with USAF Pilot in Des Moines

Summary

In January 1955, a U.S. Air Force pilot reported an unidentified flying object during a flight near Des Moines, Iowa. While flying a T-33, he observed an object approaching head-on at the same altitude of 20,000 feet. The object emitted a white light that varied in intensity and flashed at a regular frequency, with no visible trail or exhaust. Although the pilot observed it for about 25 seconds, he could not identify its nature.

The report classified the sighting as "unknown" due to the brief duration and lack of additional details. The pilot reported the incident eight days after it occurred, leading the Air Force to consider further investigation unnecessary. The object quickly ascended to approximately 35,000 feet before disappearing, leaving the pilot with more questions than answers.