Aerial observation at Webb AFB 1961

Summary

An observer at Webb AFB in Texas reported a bright light in the sky on February 22, 1961. The object appeared as a luminous flash lasting approximately 2 seconds. Although it resembled a shooting star, its trajectory was more horizontal than downward. The recorded elevation and azimuth angles were approximately 15° and between 280° and 290°, respectively. The description suggests a natural phenomenon, possibly a meteor entering the atmosphere. No photographs or radar data were taken, so the available information is limited.

Investigators concluded the phenomenon could be related to a meteor, although other possibilities were not ruled out. The lack of additional data made a more precise evaluation difficult. This type of report was common during the era, when the U.S. Air Force recorded any unusual aerial event to rule out potential threats or rare natural phenomena.