Meteor observed in flight over the Pacific

Summary

A meteor was observed on February 5, 1963, over the Pacific near coordinates 44.55N 177.15W. An aircraft reported an object moving rapidly southward at about 40 degrees above the horizon. The object left a trail similar to a meteor and appeared the size of a pinhead seen at arm's length. It was observed for 15 seconds, leading investigators to conclude it was likely a meteor. The description and duration of the sighting matched typical astronomical phenomena.

The report was classified under Project 10073 and sent to multiple military and intelligence agencies. Although it might initially seem like an unidentified object, the available data support the conclusion that it was a meteor. This type of sighting, while unusual, is common in clear-sky areas without interference, which explains why it was visible from an aircraft.