UFO seen in Mindanao in 1963

Summary

In July 1963, residents of Azpitia village in Mindanao, Philippines, reported seeing a large flaming object crash into the jungle. Initially thought to be an aircraft crash, it was later revealed to be an ICBM launched from Vandenberg AFB. The missile, nicknamed "Big Flight," was launched on July 31 and impacted in the planned zone, 200 miles east of Mindanao. USAF aircraft visually confirmed the re-entry and impact of the re-entry vehicle and its tankage.

The initial confusion stemmed from the object appearing to land in the jungle, but this was an optical illusion caused by the missile's curved descent trajectory. The USAF and Pacific Missile Range had taken safety measures to ensure the area was clear before launch. Although the incident caused no damage, it was deemed necessary to inform Philippine authorities and prepare responses to potential media inquiries. This case highlights how missile launches could be misinterpreted by civilian observers.