UFO seen by pilot over Illinois in 1957

Summary

An Air Force pilot reported a UFO in November 1957 while flying at high altitude over Illinois. The incident occurred near Jolliet, about 15-20 miles west, during a routine mission. The pilot described the object as yellowish, initially stationary and hazy, but then moving and acquiring defined outlines. He observed it for about 10 minutes before it disappeared eastward. Although he attempted to contact other aircraft in the area, he was unsuccessful. The investigation concluded it could have been a condensation trail from B-47 planes illuminated by the rising sun, creating an optical illusion for the pilot.

The report details the coordinates, exact time of the sighting, and weather conditions. The pilot, a former Air Force member with technical training, could not identify the object. The investigation found no other witnesses or records of unusual aerial activity in the area. Despite multiple lines of inquiry, the most probable conclusion points to a natural explanation, though the case remains unresolved.