UFO captured on film in Illinois

Summary

In June 1960, a photographer in Champaign, Illinois, accidentally captured an object on film while shooting a silhouette of a statue. The object was not discovered until the film was previewed. The Air Force analyzed the footage and determined the object was a light source of considerable intensity moving at high speed. It was concluded to be likely a "fireball" meteor due to its velocity and brightness. Although the object's shape could not be identified, the data suggested it was a natural phenomenon rather than an UFO.

The film was sent to the Aerospace Technical Intelligence Center for analysis. The official report noted no publicity was given to the case, but the photographer requested the analysis results. The Air Force retained the film as part of the case file, stating it would not be returned unless specifically requested. This case illustrates how even unexplained objects can have natural explanations when carefully analyzed.