Venus seen as unidentified object

Summary

A civilian witness in Fountain, Colorado, reported a round object with bright points that later disappeared, leaving a teardrop-shaped object. The object was the size of a silver dollar at arm's length, much brighter than a star, and of the same color. It was visually observed for 35 minutes, starting at approximately 90 degrees azimuth and 45 degrees elevation, until it vanished after sunrise.

Investigators concluded the phenomenon was consistent with Venus, the planet. The report noted that the sighting characteristics matched those of an astronomical body, suggesting the witness mistook the bright planet for an unidentified object. Despite the prolonged observation, no photographs were taken and no additional data was recorded.