Cylindrical UFO sighted in New Mexico in 1964

Summary

In April 1964, a science teacher in Phoenix, Arizona, observed a cylindrical or elliptical object over New Mexico. The phenomenon was seen three times, with pulsating red lights and a strong white light illuminating the terrain below. The observer, who had aviation experience, described movements that seemed unusual for an aircraft in such a mountainous area. Accompanied by a local mechanic, who also saw it, the teacher took a photo with a 35mm camera, though the images turned out blank.

The Air Force identified the object as a low-level night reconnaissance aircraft from Project Cloud Gap. These missions used strobe lights instead of conventional ones, explaining the unusual appearance. Despite the official explanation, the observer expressed doubts about it being a normal aircraft, due to the low altitude and lack of navigation lights. The case was documented with maps, photos, and testimonies, and the witness was considered competent and sincere.