The Mariana film: a date that should remain uncertain

Witness account

Baseball manager Nicholas Mariana filmed two bright objects above Great Falls while accompanied by his secretary. The short color film became a classic case and was reexamined by military and civilian analysts. Although many retellings specify 15 August, the Condon investigation found correspondence giving “5 or 15 August” and baseball scheduling evidence that weakened the later date.

Public record

Surviving film and correspondence permit analysis. Mariana later alleged that the Air Force removed clearer opening frames; investigators could not establish a consistent documentary chain for that allegation.

Sources

• Condon Report Case 47: Great Falls movie film