◆ PARALLAX

I saw something weird about three years ago and I have never told anyone because I knew they would think I was crazy. I am on this board now so maybe I can finally ask.

Fall of 1993, driving home late on Route 80 in Pennsylvania. It was around midnight. The sky was clear. Suddenly there was this orange light -- not moving fast, just hanging there above the tree line maybe a mile away. It was definitely not a plane. It made no sound. I pulled over and watched it for maybe five minutes. Then it just... faded out. Became dimmer and dimmer until it was gone.

I have no explanation for it. I am not claiming aliens or anything. I just want to know if anyone else saw this or has any idea what it could have been. I have thought about it every day for three years.

Hello. A few mundane possibilities to consider.

1. Military flare. They drop these in rural areas for training. Orange is a common color. They fall slowly and fade out over time. This matches your description.

2. Planet or bright star very low on the horizon. In fall, Venus can be remarkably bright in the early evening, and if you are unfamiliar with it, it can look stationary and strange. As it gets higher or as you drive, the angle changes and it seems to disappear.

3. Aircraft at a great distance, lit by the setting sun in a way that makes it look unusual.

Any of these seem plausible for what you saw?

Yeah, actually, now that you mention it -- the flare thing makes sense. I never thought of that. Thank you. I feel a lot better knowing there is probably a normal explanation. I appreciate the response.