Ekuk, Alaska: Silver object hovers, grabs trash cans
A metallic disc-shaped object hovered near indigenous villagers in Ekuk, Alaska, on May 19, 1960, sucking up trash cans and grass before ascending rapidly. Air Force intelligence found no explanation, despite Blue Book's weather balloon classification.
Background
Sighting
On May 19, 1960, indigenous residents in the village of Ekuk, south of Dillingham, Alaska, observed a silver-coloured, round object about 6–8 metres across. It hung 50–100 feet away in the air, just clearing power lines at 12 feet, and produced sucking sounds.
Behavior
The object drew up two empty five-gallon rubbish bins, dragged them spinning across the ground, flew between two houses, crossed a ridge over 100 yards, and dropped the bins. It then picked up swirling grass, produced loud sucking noises, and climbed away rapidly.
Witnesses and Investigation
Thomas M. Conrow, head of intelligence at a nearby air force base, questioned the witnesses and concluded that no logical explanation was available. Project Blue Book analysts at Wright-Patterson AFB classified it as a weather balloon with a radar reflector, although it had flown against the wind.
Significance
The observation illustrates conflicts between local investigation and official explanations, with sources such as Sparks and Hynek stressing that it remains unexplained.