Tear drop UFO seen in Topeka

Summary

A civilian observer in Topeka, Kansas, reported in 1962 an object shaped like a teardrop and glowing bright orange. The sighting happened at dusk, with the object reflecting sunlight. It moved very slowly, without any maneuvers, and remained at the same altitude before disappearing. The report found no conventional explanations, such as aircraft or balloons, and noted that the object left no trail or sound.

The meteorological analysis found no conditions that could explain the phenomenon. The report concluded it was not an astronomical event or a conventional aircraft. Although it was mentioned that the object's characteristics matched a helicopter, this hypothesis was not confirmed. The responsible officer, Lieutenant Charles E. Smith, prepared the report, and no other testimonies about the event were received.