🇺🇸 USAF — Project Blue Book
In July 1961, a witness in North Dayton, Ohio, observed a bright object moving northeast, described as a star or satellite. The object appeared twice, lasting 6 and 12 minutes respectively, and showed erratic side-to-side movements. Although initially thought to be a weather balloon, investigators concluded it was likely the Echo I satellite. The apparent inconsistencies in its path were attributed to atmospheric refraction or observer perception. The witness's description, along with Echo I's orbital data, supports this conclusion.