UFO sighted in 1958 in Oklahoma identified as Jupiter

Summary

An Air Force officer in Oklahoma reported a round, bright white object that appeared to emit heat waves. The sighting occurred on July 20, 1958, at 5:15 AM and lasted about 40 seconds. The object made no sound and seemed to hover in the sky, causing some confusion. The report concluded that the phenomenon was an astronomical refraction of Jupiter, which was on the horizon. Despite the apparent size of the object, there were no other sightings in the area, supporting the astronomical explanation.

A follow-up investigation confirmed there were no other witnesses or unusual activity in the area. Additionally, the possibility of a weather balloon was ruled out, although one had been launched near the time of the sighting. The Air Force concluded the report had no technical value and that the witness, though considered very reliable, lacked technical training to accurately assess the phenomenon.