UFO sighted 500 miles west of California

Summary

A pilot and crew reported a bright object resembling fireworks 500 miles west of California in 1960. The aircraft was flying at low altitude when they spotted a descending object with a glowing tail estimated to be 500 yards long. The description included "dripping" and "flaking" effects on the tail, unusual for a meteor or rocket. The object was observed for 3-5 seconds before disappearing into a cloud. Despite the pilot's extensive experience with airborne pyrotechnics, he could not identify the phenomenon.

The official conclusion leaned toward a meteor, though the report highlights the object's slow movement and extreme brightness, which don't fully match typical meteor characteristics. The sighting was reported by four individuals, adding credibility to the event. This case is part of military records showing how even well-documented sightings can be hard to classify.