UFO spotted by radar in Illinois in 1961

Summary

In April 1961, an air base in Illinois recorded an unidentified object at high altitude using radar. The object appeared at around 97,000 feet and slowly descended to about 10,000 feet, maintaining a consistent heading. Radar analysts concluded it was likely a balloon, as its behavior, speed, and apparent size matched this type of object. The "heavy" appearance could be due to low inflation or a heavier-than-normal instrument load. Despite adverse weather conditions, including strong winds and forecasted thunderstorms, no aircraft were reported in the area, reinforcing the balloon hypothesis.

The case was reviewed by Air Force experts who agreed with the initial conclusion. Although the object showed some unusual characteristics, such as a small reflective surface, these were explained by weather and the balloon's nature. The report was filed without further investigation, but it remains an interesting example of how UFO sightings were handled in the 1960s.