UFO Identified as Venus in Missouri

Summary

A 1958 report describes a bright object seen every night in the Missouri sky, resembling a star but brighter than the North Star. The observer, a 34-year-old woman, noted the object appeared at the same time and location each evening for an hour and a half. Although initially intriguing, astronomical data showed it was Venus, which was in a prominent position in the sky at that time. The confusion was understandable, as Venus can shine intensely, especially near the horizon.

Military records concluded the phenomenon had no mysterious explanation, simply matching the planet's position. This case reflects how, even in the 1950s, many UFO sightings ended up being explained by basic astronomical knowledge.