UFO over Illinois observed for 30 minutes

Summary

A civilian in Morton, Illinois, reported an object in the southeast sky on January 4, 1965. The witness observed it for half an hour, describing changes in color, brightness, and size every few seconds. The object moved irregularly, up to 5 degrees. The Air Force concluded it was Mars, which was in a similar position that night. Mars appeared in the sky around 11:30 PM and rose at 15 degrees per hour. The observed changes were attributed to atmospheric conditions. The report includes a stellar magnitude of +0.4, indicating Mars was visible to the naked eye.

The official Air Force report, written by Major Hector Quintanilla, thanks the witness and explains that Mars would remain in that position throughout January and February. Although the case was closed as astronomical, the description suggests an intense visual experience, typical of sightings that raise questions.