UFO Sighting in Delaware 1959

Summary

In October 1959, an officer at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware observed a luminous object that appeared to be a meteor. The report describes a "white fireball with a tail" that changed color from white to blue-green. The witness measured the tail's length using a pea held at arm's length, an unusual but practical method. The object was observed for 14 seconds and followed a horizontal trajectory. Although a missile was initially considered, the available data pointed to an astronomical explanation. The official report concluded it was likely a meteor.

The air base documented the sighting with precision, including magnetic bearings and exact times. Two observers confirmed the description, one with eight years of experience and the other as a supporting witness. The weather conditions were ideal for observation, with clear visibility and a full moon. Despite the thorough documentation, the case was not classified as an unidentified phenomenon but as a common astronomical event. The report reflects the careful methodology of Project 10073, which aimed to distinguish between natural phenomena and unidentified objects.