UFO sighted over North Pacific in 1961

Summary

In February 1961, an aerial observation report documented an unidentified object in the North Pacific. The sighting occurred near the coordinates 47°N 173°W, a remote oceanic location. The object was observed twice, with durations of 5 and 12 minutes, moving from west to east and passing overhead. Although no photos were taken, the report suggests it could have been a satellite like Echo I, due to the duration and trajectory of the sighting.

The report classifies the observation as visual from an aircraft, indicating that the pilot or crew saw it with the naked eye. Although explanations such as balloons, aircraft, or astronomical phenomena were ruled out, the report concludes it was likely a satellite. These kinds of records, though brief, are valuable for understanding how sightings were handled in the 1960s.