Jimmy Carter luminous-object report

Record summary

What happened Jimmy Carter, before becoming U.S. president, reported watching a luminous object change colour and apparent size with a group outside a Lions Club meeting. He later filed a written report. Astronomical reconstruction suggests Venus was in the relevant region, although Carter described colour changes and an apparent approach and retreat. Evidence A named witness’s written report and several reported companions document the observation. Explanations considered Venus seen through variable atmosphere is the principal explanation; another bright astronomical object or aircraft is possible. What remains uncertain The exact date and witness list are uncertain, and no companion account with equivalent detail is public. Primary source Jimmy Carter luminous-object report — Wikipedia