UFO sighted in the Pacific in 1962

Summary

In August 1962, an object was sighted in the Pacific Ocean near coordinates 07°18’S, 153°41’W. Two teenagers from Cleveland, Ohio, reported seeing a bright object, with a brightness similar to a second-magnitude star. The object appeared at an azimuth of 000° at 30° altitude and, over three minutes, moved to an azimuth of 015° at 25° altitude, heading northeast. The observation lasted five minutes, and no aids were used. Despite the lack of satellite data at the time, the observers concluded the object had the characteristics of an orbiting satellite.

The USS Durant logged the sighting as a priority report, and it was determined the object was not a balloon, aircraft, or known astronomical phenomenon. Although no photographs or radar were used, the report classified the case as a possible satellite. The report was distributed to multiple military and intelligence units, including CINCPACFLT and CNO, highlighting its significance during the Cold War. Ultimately, it was considered that there was insufficient data for a conclusive evaluation, but the case was filed as a noteworthy event.