Between tree gaps, Kit and I saw two symmetrical objects with flat bottoms and rounded tops hovering above Mt. Rainer. Sadly, like other UFO spotters, we did not get a photo. Driving on the interstate at the time would have made that dangerous.

However, such sightings are regular in Washington. The picture shown is one displayed by Mt. Rainier National Park. Our two smaller objects, no less  unworldly, weren’t stacked and glowed white against a clear blue sky. A pilot, Kenneth Arnold, first reported them in 1947—a good year for UFOs—and likened them to “flying saucers.” The name stuck and became synonymous with extraterrestrial visitation.

The phenomena is caused by waves in the atmosphere that form when moist air flow is forced up, over and partway down a mountaintop. The moist air cools, causing it to condense into a disk-shaped cloud. In Washington, they are considered a harbinger of rain. Mt. Rainier is a perfect spot. At 14,411 feet, it towers alone over a relatively flat countryside of only about 400 feet.

Sadly we didn’t see a UFO. But we’re still trying and hoping. Makes life more fun.

Drew