1Mi NWof Wheaton reported light formation observation — October 1960

On or during October 1960, at or near 1Mi NWof Wheaton, Maryland, United States, the source reports the following sequence: BRIEF SUMMARY OF SIGHTING: The observer reported a bright star-like object with tail brighter in the middle, flashing at intervals, and which disappeared completely after 30 seconds. COMMENTS: Probably the star Formalhaut, which was in the position reported for the object. [Redacted], This will confirm our telephone conversation of this date concerning the unidentified flying object reported by your. Also included for your information is the latest department of defense statement on the subject of unidentified flying objects. This statement outlines the position of the Department of Defense and the Department of the Air Force regarding unidentified flying objects. METROPOLITAN AREA FOR ADDITIONAL POSSIBLE SIGHTINGS, HOWEVER, NONE WAS REPORTED. NAVAL OBSERVATORY REPORTED NO SIGHTINGS, BUT INDICATED THE OBJECT MAY HAVE BEEN A METEOR. HOWEVER, NAVAL OBSERVATORY OBSERVED A METEOR WHICH WOULD HAVE BEEN VISIBLE FOR THREE (3) MINUTES. ONLY REASONABLE CONCLUSION IS THAT THE OBJECT OBSERVED WAS THE LANDING LIGHT OF AN ONCOMING AIRCRAFT. LANDING PATTERNS AT THE TIME OF THE SIGHTING WERE TO THE NORTH AT ALL THREE AIRPORTS, AND IT IS BELIEVED THAT THE OBSERVER SAW THE LANDING LIGHT OF AN AIRCRAFT ON A STRAIGHT-IN APPROACH, THUS GIVING THE APPEARANCE OF A STATIONARY OBJECT.