A pear-shaped object seen in Illinois

Summary

A 1962 Project 10073 report details a sighting in Rantoul, Illinois. Witness James A. Harke described a pear-shaped object, pinkish-orange in color and grapefruit-sized, moving westward. The observation lasted 3–4 minutes as he drove home. Initially labeled as a UFO, investigators concluded it was likely the setting moon. Atmospheric refraction may have distorted its appearance, leading to the unusual description.

The report includes weather and wind data but no flight operations that could explain the sighting. The witness, a reliable instructor, added credibility. However, the moon set at 23:26, close to the sighting time, suggesting a misidentification. The moon was 21% illuminated, possibly contributing to the perception of an unusual object.