UFO sighted near satellite launch

Summary

In November 1961, a civilian observer reported a cone-shaped object with a comet-like tail, extremely bright and emitting continuous sparks. The object moved in a slow parabolic curve toward the southeast for approximately 4 minutes. The detailed description includes changes in its intensity and direction, which drew attention due to its unusual behavior.

The official evaluation concluded the phenomenon was a rocket, specifically the launch of the Transit 4B satellite, which occurred shortly before the sighting. Despite being classified as a rocket, the object's description and characteristics generated interest. This case is part of a historical database that collects unexplained sighting reports, many of which had rational explanations in the end.