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Kenneth Arnold UAP Sighting
On June 24, 1947, pilot Kenneth Arnold witnessed nine crescent-shaped UAPs flying at supersonic speeds near Mount Rainier. His description of their movement 'like a saucer skipping on water' created the term 'flying saucer.' This sighting launched modern ufology and sparked the UFO phenomenon.
1947
Mount Rainier, Washington, USA
1+ witnesses
The sighting that started it all.
The Flight
June 24, 1947:
- Private pilot
- CallAir A-2
- Near Mount Rainier
- Searching for crashed plane
- Clear conditions
Kenneth Arnold
Who he was:
- Businessman
- Experienced pilot
- Fire equipment salesman
- Idaho resident
- No UFO interest
The Objects
What he saw:
- Nine objects
- Crescent/disc shape
- Chain formation
- Bright reflection
- Supersonic speed
The Calculation
What he measured:
- Timed the objects
- Against mountain peaks
- 1,700 mph estimated
- Three times faster
- Than any aircraft
The Interview
What he reported:
- “Like a saucer skipping on water”
- Describing movement
- Press coined “flying saucer”
- Story went worldwide
- Term stuck forever
The Investigation
Official response:
- Army Air Force interest
- Interviewed Arnold
- Considered credible
- No explanation
- Case remained open
The Legacy
What it started:
- Modern UFO era began
- “Flying saucer” term created
- Mass sightings followed
- Roswell weeks later
- Changed history