UFO identified as Venus in 1957

Summary

A civilian observer in Redlands, California, reported an oval object the size of a half-dollar, bright white, that remained stationary for 15 to 20 minutes before fading out. A small red light was nearby but not considered related. The investigation concluded the object was Venus, confirmed by astronomical charts and calculations. The red light was believed to be a hazard light on San Antonio Peak, aligned with the observer's line of sight.

This case, under Project 10073, was evaluated by the Air Defense Command and confirmed as an astronomical phenomenon. Although initially it could have raised doubts, the natural explanation was clear and no other hypotheses were needed.