UFO sighted near Louisville in 1960

Summary

In September 1960, a pilot flying at 9000 feet observed a bright object moving rapidly from southeast to northwest. The aircraft was near Louisville, Kentucky, and the pilot noted that the object had characteristics similar to a satellite like Sputnik. Two smaller objects appeared afterward, following a parallel course to the first. The pilot and co-pilot observed the objects for about 12 minutes, noting changes in their brightness. Although initially considering the possibility of an aerial refueling operation, they dismissed it due to the unusual speed and altitude.

The official report includes several possible explanations, from weather balloons to astronomical phenomena, but none convinced the observer. The pilot contacted Indianapolis Air Traffic Control, but there was no confirmation of other aircraft in the area. The detailed description of the event, along with the impossibility of identifying it as a conventional aircraft, adds mystery to this case. This document is part of the Project 10073 files, an Air Force initiative to investigate unidentified flying objects.