UFO cylindrical object observed by F-102 pilot in 1958

Summary

In 1958, F-102 interceptor pilot 1st Lt. Charles J. Scharf reported a white cylindrical object with a dark circle in the center, performing unusual maneuvers. The pilot was flying at 40,000 feet when he observed the object moving rapidly northward. It climbed, slowed, made a 360-degree orbit, then closed in on the aircraft, circling it multiple times before accelerating and disappearing northwest. The pilot described the object's color and shape, initially thinking it might be another aircraft, but the movement patterns led him to consider other possibilities.

Investigators concluded it was likely a weather balloon released in the area. Wind patterns at the estimated altitude matched the object's path, and no other sightings or radar confirmations were reported. Although the pilot was experienced and reliable, analysts noted that pilots can also experience optical illusions, especially at high altitudes where reference points are scarce. The detailed description and behavior of the object, however, aligned with known balloon characteristics.