McAlester radar tracking report — February 14, 1973

A DC-8 cargo crew flying from St.Louis to Dallas reported an unusual object near McAlester, Oklahoma, around 2:30 a.m. on February 14, 1973. Richard Hall’s published account, reproduced by NICAP, describes both visual observations and returns on the aircraft’s weather radar. A heading in one directory says Alabama, but the narrative and flight context identify Oklahoma. The copilot first noticed a steady amber light maintaining position near the right wing. As it moved closer, the crew reportedly saw a polished disc with a transparent dome and small projections. The object changed relative position several times, passing above and below the aircraft. During a close view from above, the pilots described two or three shadowy forms moving inside the dimly lit dome. Hall also reports that the radar return disappeared at considerable range after departure. The available account is a published narrative rather than independently examined radar recordings, and neither a return nor the indistinct forms establishes extraterrestrial occupants. The illustration shows the cockpit crew observing the domed object below and beside the aircraft, with unresolved interior shadows. Craft dimensions, crew likenesses and instrument displays are illustrative.