UFO in Forsyth Montana identified as Venus

Summary

In February 1961, a witness in Forsyth, Montana reported a bright object in the sky that initially appeared as a star but turned red as it moved away. The report classified the observation as likely Venus, due to its position matching astronomical data. The observer described the object as twice the size of a star, with a bright white color that changed to red. The official conclusion from Project 10073 was that it was Venus, and factors such as atmospheric refraction and the planet's high magnitude (-4.2) contributed to the confusion.

The report also notes that there was air activity in the area, which could have influenced the observer's perception. Despite the initial confusion, weather and astronomical data matched the position and trajectory of Venus, supporting the identification. No physical evidence or photographs were found, but almanac calculations confirmed Venus would be visible in that position at that time. The case was closed as a non-problematic astronomical sighting.