UFO Sighting in Grand Junction, Colorado (29 Sep 1960)

Summary

In September 1960, a witness in Grand Junction, Colorado, observed a luminous object flashing red, green, and white lights. It was described as a circle with a square in the center, remaining stationary for 20 minutes before moving southwest. Using an inclinometer, the observer estimated its altitude at about 37.5 miles. However, investigators concluded that this phenomenon could be explained by atmospheric refraction, caused by a temperature inversion. Weather data confirmed conditions that could have produced a mirage, which would explain the misidentification and perceived location of the object.

Triangulation from different observation points showed geometric inconsistencies, suggesting the object was not physical but an optical illusion. Despite a B-52 aircraft being contacted about the area, nothing was found. Ultimately, officials concluded that the temperature inversion was responsible for the confusion, though the actual object causing the perception was never identified.