17 objects in the Indianapolis sky with color changes

Summary

In August 1960, a witness in Indianapolis observed 17 objects in the sky for 1.5 hours that changed color between vivid purple, red, and amber. At certain moments, two small green specks appeared on each side, and occasionally a beam of light would descend. All objects were slightly larger than a pinhead. The official report suggests that the color changes and appearance of the objects could be explained by a temperature inversion that alters the perception of stars and planets. It is noted that the witness contacted the Weather Bureau but was not satisfied with their explanation. An Air Force officer considered that it could be Venus seen through a high haze layer.

The official investigation concludes that there is insufficient evidence to determine the exact nature of the objects, but points to astronomical or atmospheric explanations as possible causes. The witness, a 22-year-old man working at a Chevrolet dealership, claimed to have seen similar objects three months earlier, suggesting some familiarity with unidentified aerial phenomena.