The Tehran Incident
Two fighter jets went after a bright light over Tehran. Both crews reported equipment failing as they got close.
What was reported
In the early hours of 19 September 1976, residents of Tehran called the airport about a bright object in the sky. The Imperial Iranian Air Force sent an F-4 Phantom, which reported losing instruments and communications as it approached, then getting them back after turning away.
A second jet described the object as very bright, flashing coloured lights, and said a smaller object seemed to separate from it. A US defence intelligence report on the incident was later made public.
Explanations offered
Suggested explanations include the planet Jupiter, which was bright that night, combined with equipment faults and the stress of a night intercept. Others argue this doesn't account for the radar contact and the equipment failures.
- When
- 19 September 1976
- Where
- Tehran, Iran
- Witnesses
- Residents, air traffic control and two fighter crews
- Status
- Unexplained
Famous cases are real, widely reported events. Each file sets out what witnesses said and the explanations that have been offered, without taking a side.