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Zacatecas Observatory UFO
Astronomer José Bonilla photographed approximately 300 objects crossing the face of the sun from the Zacatecas Observatory in 1883. The objects appeared dark and varied in shape. Later attributed to geese, but the explanation is disputed. The first photographs of possible UFOs.
1883
Zacatecas, Mexico
2+ witnesses
The first photographs of unidentified aerial objects.
The Observer
José Bonilla:
- Professional astronomer
- Zacatecas Observatory
- August 12, 1883
- Photographing sun
- Scientific observation
The Sighting
What was observed:
- Approximately 300 objects
- Crossing solar disc
- Over two days
- Varying shapes
- Dark against sun
The Photographs
Historic images:
- First UFO photos?
- Scientific documentation
- Published in journal
- Preserved record
- 1886 publication
The Objects
Description:
- Dark silhouettes
- Various shapes
- Some circular
- Some irregular
- Moving in groups
The Explanation
Later theory:
- Geese proposed
- High-flying birds
- Conventional explanation
- Still debated
- Distance uncertain
The Mystery
Questions remain:
- Why 300+ objects?
- Why crossing sun path?
- Altitude unknown
- Speed uncertain
- First documented case?