Scientists search for Amelia Earhart's plane in South Pacific

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 16 Oct, 17:33 · Archive

A Purdue University expedition is investigating a mysterious object in a lagoon near Nikumaroro that may be the wreckage of aviator Amelia Earhart's Lockheed Electra 10-E aircraft. The 17-person team paused field operations after winds and rough seas made it too dangerous to reach the island by transport boat.

Researchers began collecting data on the object, known as the Taraia Object, but cautioned that it was too early to draw conclusions. Rick Pettigrew, executive director of the Archaeological Legacy Institute and a leader of the expedition, said that identifying what is at the site is a complex scientific process that cannot be done immediately upon arrival.

Despite the weather delay, Purdue University said the expedition remains on schedule, with two more days of field operations planned before the team must depart the atoll and return to Tarawa, Kiribati. An update on the identification of the Taraia Object is expected before the team leaves.

How it is being reported

• Race to find Amelia Earhart's lost plane hits rough seas as crucial deadline nearsThe Purdue University expedition hit severe weather near Nikumaroro, pausing efforts to identify a lagoon object that may be Amelia Earhart's plane.Fox News · 16 Oct, 17:16
• Scientists to dredge possible location of Amelia Earhart's planeScientists are preparing to dredge the area near where they believe Amelia Earhart's plane may have crashed in the South Pacific. Lana Zak reports.CBS News · 15 Oct, 15:35

In this story: Amelia Earhart · Purdue University · Nikumaroro · South Pacific

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