NUFORC Sighting 25782

Occurred: 2002-10-18 21:30 Local
Reported: 2002-10-25 06:47 Pacific
Duration: 5 seconds
No of observers: 2

Location: Memphis, IN, USA

Shape: Unknown
Characteristics: Left a trail

Why is one question "Shape of Craft"? UFO implies it was an unidentified flying object, not necessarily a craft. It seems presumptuous to pose the question.

What I saw was most likely a meteorite or space junk, but it was the largest and brightest I've ever seen. Unfortunately I did not have a clear view of it. The sky was covered with thin clouds and the moon was visible through holes in the clouds to the southeast. The object crossed the sky quickly (like a shooting star) over the course of about 5 seconds, moving from South to Southwest at about 40-45 degrees above the horizon.

Because of the clouds I could not directly see the object, but through the clouds a bright trail was briefly visible, the width of which was the size of a silver dollar held at arms length. Its likely the clouds diffused the light somewhat, but that the trail was visible at all with the cloud cover is notable. It seemed as if the object was either very large or passing close to the ground.

We were at a bonfire party and a friend and I both saw it. Other's were present, but not looking in the correct direction at the time.

Coincidentally, several people present at the part (including myself and my wife) got violently ill the next day. I say coincidentally because it had all the symptoms of a stomach flu bug. My wife got very sick and vomitted throughout Saturday night as did the friend who hosted the party. I experienced stomach cramps and terrible diahrea but no vomitting. Again, this seems coincidental and most likely caused by other factors- like the Chili my wife sampled at the party (though I had nothing to eat).

I'm providing these details mainly to collaborate any other reports of strange objects in the vacinity that you might have received.

Posted 2002-10-28