ERDING AIR DEPOT GERMANY, October 1952October 1952

On the morning of October 29, 1952, at approximately 7:50 a.m. local time, two U.S. Air Force airmen at Erding Air Depot in Germany spotted an unusual object in the western sky. Staff Sergeant (name redacted) and Airman Second Class (name redacted) were walking toward the bowling alley when one pointed out what he described as an unidentified flying object. The object appeared silver in color and circular in shape, traveling away from the observers at an estimated speed of 400 miles per hour on a west-northwest heading.

The object remained visible for approximately 20 to 30 seconds before disappearing from view behind the bowling alley building. The witnesses estimated it flew at a height of about 7,000 feet. According to their statements, the object seemed to glide smoothly through the air at a constant speed. Neither observer heard any sound or detected any exhaust trail. One witness noted the object was silhouetted against the cloud background, making it difficult to distinguish a definite color, though it appeared silver or silvery overall. Neither observer could distinguish any wings, propellers, or tail, suggesting a round or circular shape.

The Air Force investigation checked with the radar operator on duty at the time, but the radar site reported nothing. Flight Service Records showed no aircraft in the general area. Weather conditions at the time were generally favorable for observation, with overcast skies at 10,000 feet and seven miles of visibility. The weather office noted observing conditions were good. Intelligence officers stated that both witnesses were reliable personnel capable of making accurate observations.

The Air Force evaluated this sighting as "probably balloon," though the case file does not elaborate on the reasoning behind this conclusion. The full case file is reproduced below as held by the National Archives, totaling nine pages.