The following is submitted in compliance with paragraph 7d, AFL
200-5 dated 29 April 1952:
1. Description of Object: The size of the objeot
("blip") as it appeared on the Plan 12 Indicator was approximately 5 to 8 degrees
½ to 1 mile in width. The Plan 12 Indicator was set for a 60 mile
sweep with no delay.
2. Time of Sighting: The object first appeared at 1207-I and faded from the scope at 1209-I
3. Manner of Observation: The sighting was made on TPS-1B type radar with "L" band.
a. Electronic Data: The object was observed on the Plan 12
Indicator. The transmitted signal was 1273.5 megacycles. The pulse repetition rate was approximately 203 pulses per second. The pulse width was 4 microseconds.
The range was set for a sixty mile sweep with no delay. The amount of sea and
ground return were normal. Since the object appeared for only two minutes
on the scope, maintenance men were not able to adequately check the set for
malfunction, however the size, shape and location of the echo were such that
set trouble seemed to be very remote. Set was operating normally before and
after the incident.
4. Location of Observer: The geographic coordinates of Detachment 21, 618th AC&W Squadron are 129° 51″ E/ 34° 19″ N. Heading of the object was 002°
until it reached 129°51″E/35°19″ N. At this position it assumed a heading of approximately 310° and held this heading until it reached 129°32″E/34°39″N. At this point the object assumed a heading of 280° until it faded from the scope. No information can accurately be given in regards to the altitude of the object,since the radar set has never been calibrated. It is believed that coverage in this particular area is only at high altitudes, possibly due to mountainous terrain a short distance
from the antenna, when pointing in the direction the object was observed.
5. Reliability of the Observer: The radar operator who made this observation is considered reliable and has had six months experience in his present position.
a. Factors Bearing on Estimated Reliability of the Sightings:
The area in which the object appeared is not a heavy traffic area, however
jet aircraft have been plotted in this area in the past. None of the aircraft
sighted have travelled at a speed which would be considered irregular.
6. Weather Conditions: Weather in general was
fair and sea condition was calm. Visibility was approximately 5 miles, with base.
