Malibu Beach: Four B-36-sized discs in formation
Three Northrop crew members observed four metallic disc-shaped objects, each the size of a B-36 bomber, flying in squadron formation over Malibu Beach at 20,000 feet and 1,200 mph for about five minutes.
Background
Witnesses and Observation
On January 29, 1953 at 14:20, Rex Hardy Jr., a test pilot at Northrop, Chester Mathews, also a test pilot, and Jim Wilkinson, the company's photographer, saw four metallic, disc-shaped objects. These flew in tight formation over Malibu Beach, California. The objects were about the size of a B-36 bomber and moved at an estimated 20,000 feet at 1,200 mph. The observation lasted around five minutes.
Details and Estimates
The witnesses, all experienced Northrop employees during a test, described the objects as metallic and disc-like. They flew in perfect squadron formation, which indicates coordinated movement. No sounds were mentioned, despite the high speed.
Sources and Significance
Reported in NICAP documents, in local newspapers such as the North Hollywood Valley Times (30.1.1953), Los Angeles Times (30.1.1953), Long Beach Independent (31.1.1953), as well as the APRO Bulletin and books by Lorenzen and Gross. The event is among the well-attested sightings by test pilots in the early 1950s.