Giant UFO over the Columbia River in 1956

Summary

In January 1956, a witness in Sauvies Island, Oregon, observed a massive object reflected on the Columbia River. It was described as the size of a city block, elongated and circular, with lights on one side. The object was close enough to appear like a hotel when the lights turned on. It hovered and pulsed gently before fading westward. The sighting lasted for one full hour, and the witness was a civilian, adding credibility to the detailed description of the phenomenon.

Weather conditions were completely overcast at 1500 feet, making astronomical explanations unlikely. Although various possibilities were considered, such as balloons or aircraft, investigators concluded it might have been a reflection caused by river traffic, such as a boat. However, the object's description and behavior did not easily fit conventional categories, keeping the case intriguing and unresolved.