UFO reported as satellite over Mississippi

Summary

In May 1961, a pilot reported a bright object between second and third magnitude, observed near Meridian and Jackson, Mississippi. The initial report was not received, but a follow-up message indicated the pilot considered it a satellite. The object appeared at about 32 degrees elevation and disappeared below the horizon. Although weather balloons and conventional aircraft were ruled out, its exact nature remained uncertain.

The flight crew observed it during a training mission. The copilot, who had initially reported the sighting, was on leave at the time. A local weather station confirmed no balloons were in the area. Despite doubts, the case was classified as a satellite. The lack of precise data and the brief duration of the sighting made a conclusive evaluation difficult.