UFO observed at Charleston AFB in 1963

Summary

In October 1963, an observer at Charleston AFB, South Carolina, saw an object resembling an orange comet with a tail. The event lasted about 30 seconds and was described as a meteor breaking up while disappearing toward the northwest. Although it initially seemed to climb, the data suggests it was a bolide, a bright type of meteor. The sighting was recorded by military personnel, and no photos were taken. The object was concluded to be neither a balloon, an aircraft, nor an unknown phenomenon.

The official report classifies the case as a meteor, based on the description and trajectory of the object. Despite the witness not considering it a falling star, weather data and upper winds ruled out a weather balloon. No additional reports were received from other agencies, and the case was closed without further investigation. The object was visually observed by a group of people, and the weather conditions were ideal for night visibility.