UFO sighted with theodolite in Nevada

Summary

A weather observer in Nevada spotted an unidentified object through a theodolite in June 1961. The object appeared from the south, orbited the area for two and a half hours, and disappeared heading west. Its altitude was estimated between 80,000 and 120,000 feet, a typical height for spy planes like the U-2. Despite efforts, the object could not be identified with certainty, although the data support the possibility that it was a military aircraft.

The observation was detailed and recorded by the Air Force, which considered several possibilities, from weather balloons to conventional aircraft. However, meteorological data and the absence of non-conventional activity in the area point to a conventional explanation. The report concludes that it was likely a U-2 aircraft, given its altitude and trajectory, which would fit with known operations at Nellis AFB.