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STRANGE PLACES DOOR TO HELL Turkmenistan’s Ever – Burning Crater In the heart of the Karakum Desert, Turkmenistan, lies a massive gas crater  that has been burning for decades – a fiery reminder of the powerful forces  hidden beneath Earth’s surface. QUICK FACTS Also Known as: Darvaza Gas Crater / “Door to Hell” Location: Darvaza, Ahal Province, Turkmenistan Formation Date: Accounts suggest 1963 or 1971 (Exact date uncertain) Diameter: 60-70 meters (200 feet) Depth: 30 meters (100 feet) Main gas: Methane (Natural gas) BACKGROUND The Door to Hell is a large gas crater in the Karakum Desert, Turkmenistan. The area is rich in natural gas deposits and during Soviet times, geologists were exploring the region for potential drilling sites. What started as a drilling operation in the 1960’s or 1971 led to collapse of the ground, creating a large hole filled with natural gas. According to the commonly reported account in order to prevent the spread of toxic methane gas to nearby villages, engineers ignited the gas to prevent the spread of methane, expecting the fire to burn out but it never did. View background > TIMELINE OF EVENTS 1963 OR 1971 Possible Formation Different historical accounts give different dates for the collapse and crater formation during soviet-era gas drilling operations. October 25, 1972 – Crater Confirmed Landsat satellite imagery shows that the crater already existed in this date. February 1987 to 1988 – Persistent Flaming Begins Satellite analysis indicates that sustained flaring began during this period. 2020 – 2025 – Methane Detected from Space Hyperspectral satellites identified numerous methane plumes and helped estimate emissions from the crater. 2026 – New Scientific Assessment Researchers published a detailed satellite-based reconstruction of the crater’s history and methane emissions. KEY EVIDENCE Satellite Imagery Landsat images from 1972 confirms crater’s existence and newer satellites track its activity and methane emissions. Continued Flaming The fire has been burning persistently since the late 1980s, contradicting early expectations that it would go out in a few weeks. Methane Emissions Studies from 2020-2025 detected 44 methane plumes between 2020 – 2025, estimating emissions at around 1-3 tonnes per hour. Scientific Analysis A 2026 study in Geophysical Research Letters reconstructed the crater’s history and confirmed methane emissions and combustion. Geographical Research Letters (2026) > SCIENTIFIC EXPLANATION The Door to Hell burns because large amounts of methane, a natural gas, are escaping from underground reservoirs and mixing with air. When this methane reaches the surface, it combines with oxygen and ignites, creating a continuous flame that has burned for decades. Methane-rich gas rises from deep underground to the surface, where it burns due to exposure of oxygen. Click Here > CURRENT RESEARCH & STATUS Scientists continue to study the Door to Hell to better understand its methane emissions, geological history and environmental impact. Modern satellite technology allows researchers to monitor the size of the flames and the amount of gas released into the atmosphere. Environmental Impact: Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas, and the crater’s emissions contribute to climate change. Ongoing Studies: Researchers are using satellite data and field studies to learn more about the crater’s long-term behavior. Source: NDTV > WHAT WE STILL DON’T KNOW Was the crater formed in 1963 or 1971 ? How long will the fire continue to burn ? How much methane is released into the atmosphere over time ? What will be the long-term environmental impact of the emissions ? National Geograhic > WHY IT MATTERS ? Importance The Door to Hell is more than just a strange natural wonder – it is powerful example of how human activity and natural resources can create long-term environmental challenges for our planet. “A fiery reminder of Earth’s hidden forces.”

STRANGE PLACES BLOOD FALLS Antarctica’s Mysterious Red Waterfall A breathtaking natural phenomenon in Antarctica, where red-blood  water flows from a glacier – creating a striking and otherworldly  sight in the Earth’s coldest place. QUICK FACTS Location: Taylor Glacier, Antarctica Discovered: 1911 (by Thomas Griffith Taylor) Colour: Red (iron-rich water) Source: Subglacial lake (below glacier) Type: Natural phenomenon BACKGROUND Blood Falls is a striking red waterfall located in the McMurdo Dry Valleys of Antarctica, near the edge of Taylor Glacier. It was first discovered in 1911 by Thomas Griffith Taylor who noticed the unusual red stream flowing from the ice. For many years, the reason behind its red colour remained a mystery until scientists conducted detailed research in the 1960s and later. READ FULL BACKGROUND > SCIENTIFIC DISCOVEREY TIMELINE 1911 – FirstDiscovery Thomas Griffith Taylor an Australain geologist, observes a red waterfall flowing from Taylor Glacier in Antarctica. 1960 – InitialScientific Research Scientists begin studying the phenomenon and collecting samples of the red water to understand its source. 1970s – 1990s –Deeper Investigation Researchers reveal that the red water is rich in iron and other minerals, and comes from a subglacial lake beneath the glacier. 2000s – Present – Advanced Studies Modern research using advanced technology has confirmed that the water is a natural, iron-rich, salty brine and scientists continue to study its unique chemistry. SCIENTIFIC EXPLANATION Blood Falls is created by iron-rich , salty water (brine) that flows from beneath Taylor Glacier. This water comes from a subglacial lake , which has been isolated from the surface for thousand of years. When this water comes out and is exposed to oxygen, the iron in it reacts and creates a rusty red colour, making the waterfall look like flowing blood. Read Full Information > KEY EVIDENCE Ice and rock samples collected form the area show high levels of iron and other minerals in the red water.  Chemical analysis confirms the presence of iron-rich, salty water emerging from beneath the glacier.  Studies have identified a subglacial lake under Taylor Glacier, which stores this salty water for thousand of years.  Laboratory research shows the red colour is caused by iron in the water reacting with oxygen when it comes into contact with the air. Source: Science Alert > CURRENT STATUS Blood Falls remains an active area of scientific research. Scientists are still studying the source, chemistry and microbial life in the subglacial lake, as well as the way iron-rich water reaches the surface. New studies continue to provide deeper insights into this unique Antarctic environment. National Science Foundation (NSF) WHAT WE STILL DON’T KNOW The exact mechanism that triggers the release of the red water to the surface is still not fully understood ? How the subglacial lake and its iron-rich water system are connected and changing over time ? Whether similar features exist in other parts of Antarctica and on other planets ? “What looks like a mystery on the surface can reveal an extraordinary story hidden beneath the ice.”

FAMOUS INVESTIGATIONS APOLLO 13 The Mission That Turned a Disaster Into a Triumph  11-17 APRIL 1970  LUNAR MISSION HUMANITY’S GREATEST SPACE – RESCUE STORY READ INVESTIGATION > QUICK FACTS Mission: Apollo 13 Launch: 11 April 1970 Crew: James Lovell (Commander), Fred Haise (Lunar Module Pilot), John Swigert (Command Module Pilot) Objective: Lunar landing (13th Apollo mission) Outcome: Safe return to Earth on 17 April 1970 BACKGROUND Apollo 13 was the third lunar landing mission in NASA’s Apollo program. Launched on 11 April 1970 from Kennedy Space Center, Florida. The crew was headed for the moon to land and conduct scientific experiments as part of NASA’s efforts to explore space. On 11 April, the spacecraft was in good health and on course for the moon. READ FULL BACKGROUND > TIMELINE OF EVENTS 11 APRIL 1970 Apollo 13 launches from Kennedy Space Center. 12 APRIL 1970 Crew heads toward the moon; preparing for lunar landing. 13 APRIL 1970 An oxygen-tank failure in the Service Module causes an explosion. 14 APRIL 1970 The crew moves into the Lunar Module, which becomes their temporary lifeboat. 15-16 APRIL 1970 Apollo 13 swings around the moon and begins its journey back toward Earth. 17 APRIL 1970 Apollo 13 lands safely in the Pacific Ocean, ending the mission. THE CRISIS Oxygen Tank Explosion On 13 April 1970, an oxygen tank in the Service Module of Apollo 13 exploded. The explosion damaged the spacecraft’s life support system. With only limited resources, the crew faced the real risk of running out of oxygen, power and water. READ CRISIS DEATILS > SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE Significance Apollo 13 did not achieve its lunar landing objective, but it became one of the most studied and admired missions in scientific exploration. It demonstrated extraordinary problem-solving, engineering skill and teamwork under extreme pressure. VIEW NASA MISSION ARCHIVES > KEY MOMENTS Crew Adapts Quickly Astronauts improvise and follow NASA;s guidance to conserve vital resources. Mission Control’s Help NASA’s ground terms work tirelessly to support the crew and solve the crisis. Clever Solutions The crew successfully shut down non-essential systems and adapted the spacecraft for survival. Safe Return On 17 April 1970, Apollo 13 landed safely in the Pacific Ocean and the crew was recovered by the U.S. Navy. THE MISSION LEGACY & RESEARCH Apollo 13 Apollo 13 remains a powerful example of human ingenuity and teamwork. It is widely studied in aerospace engineering, risk management and problem-solving courses. The mission’s challenges led to improved spacecraft systems, better emergency protocols and stronger safety measures for future spaceflights. CURRENT STATUS RESOLVED – INVESTIGATION COMPLETED The Apollo 13 accident was extensively investigated by NASA. The investigation determined that the failure originated with the explosion of an oxygen tank in the service module, and the findings led to technical and operational changes to improve the safety and reliability of later Apollo missions. VIEW REPORT > KEY IMAGES Apollo 13 Lunar Module Oxygen Tank Explosion Crew Inside Command Module Earthrise – Apollo 13 Splashdown & Recovery From last – minute crisis to a safe return Apollo 13 reminds us that even in the face of disaster, human skill, courage  and collaboration can turn impossible odds into a story of survival.

FAMOUS INVESTIGATIONS THE TITANIC DISASTER How the sinking of the “unsinkable” ship was investigated. The sinking of RMS Titanic shocked the world and triggered major investigations on both  sides of the Atlantic. Investigations examined the iceberg collision, speed, ice warnings,  lifeboat capacity, radio communications and the response of nearby ships. VIEW OFFICIAL INVESTIGATION > QUICK FACTS 15 APRIL 1912 Date of sinking NORTH ATLANTIC Location of disaster RMS TITANIC British passenger liner ICEBERG COLLISION Immediate cause of sinking MORE THAN 1,500 lives lost (approx.) BACKGROUND Titanic was built as a large luxury passenger liner. She departed Southampton on 10 April 1912 on her maiden voyage to New York. On the night of 14 April, the ship encountered an iceberg. Titanic sank in the early hours of 15 April 1912. READ HISTORICAL BACKGROUND > QUICK FACTS 15 APRIL 1912 Date of sinking NORTH ATLANTIC Location of disaster RMS TITANIC British passenger liner ICEBERG COLLISION Immediate cause of sinking MORE THAN 1,500 lives lost (approx.) BACKGROUND Titanic was built as a large luxury passenger liner. She departed Southampton on 10 April 1912 on her maiden voyage to New York. On the night of 14 April, the ship encountered an iceberg. Titanic sank in the early hours of 15 April 1912. READ HISTORICAL BACKGROUND > TIMELINE OF INVESTIGATION 15 APRIL 1912 Titanic sinks The Titanic Disaster becomes an international shock. 19 APRIL – 25 MAY 1912 U.S. Senate hearings 82 witnesses testifies during the investigation. 28 MAY 1912 U.S. Senate report Final report issued by the U.S. Senate. 1912 British investigation The British Government also conducted a formal inquiry. 1985 Wreck discovered Joint American-French expedition locates the wreck. INVESTIGATION AREAS VIEW SENATE INVESTIGATION > ICE WARNINGS What ice warnings were received and how they were handled ? SHIP’S SPEED Titanic’s speed in the ice region was examined ? LIFEBOATS Was there sufficient lifeboat capacity and adequate preparation ? RADIO COMMUNICATION How distress messages were handled and why nearby ships did not respond effectively ? KEY EVIDENCES SURVIVOR TESTIMONY Witnesses gave firsthand accounts of the sinking and evacuation. RADIO MESSAGES Communication records helped investigators examine Titanic’s distress calls and the response of other vessels. LIFEBOAT EVIDENCE The investigation examined the number of lifeboats, their capacity and passenger/crew procedurs. WRECK SITE The discovery of the wreck in 1985 allowed researchers to study the physical remains of the ship. VIEW OFFICIAL INVESTIGATION RECORD > INVESTIGATION FINDINGS The investigation did not treat the disaster as simply an iceberg hit the ship. They examined a combination of factors, including ; Inadequate lifeboat capacity  Safety procedures  Handling of ice warnings  Ship speed  Crew preparation  Radio communication  Response of nearby ships IMPACT/ CHANGES The titanic disaster led to major cahnges in maritime safety, including; LIFEBOAT CAPACITY Adequate capacity for everyone abroad become a central safety requirement. CREW TRAINING & DRILLS Better preparation and regular drills were recommended. RADIO COMMUNICATION Improved procedures for distress messages and greater reliability in maritime communication. ICE PATROLS Led to the creation for the International Ice Patrol and better monitoring of ice in the North Atlantic. THE WRECK & SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH THE WRECK – A SECOND INVESTIGATION The physical wreck wasn’t discovered until 1 September 1985, when the joint American-French expeditions located it. The wreck lies about 3,800 meters (12,500 feet) underwater. NOAA later conducted scientific expeditions using remotely operated technology to study the wreck and its deterioration. Since its discovery, researchers have used sonar, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), cameras, submersibles and detailed archaeological mapping to document the wreck and its surrounding debris field. EXPLORE NOAA’S TITANIC RESEARCH > CURRENT STATUS MAJOR INVESTIGATIONS COMPLETED – DISASTER WELL DOCUMENTED The basic causes and circumstances of the Titanic sinking were investigated extensively in 1912 and wreck was subsequently located and scientifically studied. While they key facts are well-established, some individual details and interpretations  continue to be discussed by historians and researchers. VIEW FULL REPORT > “The disaster was not only a tragedy; it became a turning point in how passengers ships, crews, communications and emergency procedures were regulated.”

SURVIVAL STORIES JULIANE KOEPCKE THE GIRL WHO FELL FROM THE SKY A True Story of Courage, Resilience and Hope. 1971 Amazon Rainforest, Peru 1 Survivor Explore Her Incredible Journey > SURVIVAL STORIES JULIANE KOEPCKE THE GIRL WHOFELL FROM THESKY A True Story of Courage, Resilience and Hope. 1971 Amazon Rainforest, Peru 1 Survivor Explore Her Incredible Journey > QUICK FACTS 11 Days Alone in the Amazon Rainforest. 3,000+ KM 3,000 km of forest crossed on foot. Only Survivor From LANSA Flight 508. A Story of Hope And Extraordinary Human Strength. BACKGROUND 1971 On December 24, 1971, Juliane Koepcke, a 17-year old German-Peruvian student was travelling with her mother, Inge, on a LANSA Flight 508 from Lima to Pucallpa, Peru. When the plane entered a violent storm over the Amazon rainforest, it crashed. Juliane’s mother was killed and Juliane was the only survivor-falling from over 3,000 meters (10,000 feet) and landing in the dense jungle below. CLICK HERE > THE CRASH SITE INFORMATION LANSA Flight 508 crashed in the Amazon rainforest of Peru, killing 91 people on board – including Juliane’s mother, Inge. The wreckage fell into the remote rainforest near Puerto Inca. Juliane who was only 17-years old at that time was the only survivor who survived that plane crash and was later rescued from the Amazon Rainforest. Read more about crash site > TIMELINE OF EVENTS DEC 24, 1971 Plane (LANSA Flight 508) crashes in the Amazon rainforest of Peru. DEC 24 – 26, 1971 Juliane survives the crash and spends the first two days alone in the jungle with only basic belongings and her courage. DEC 27 – JAN 3, 1971 She begins following a river, believing it might lead to a settlement. JAN 4, 1972 After 11 days, Juliane is found by a group of loggers, exhausted but alive. Map shows an approximate location and route for illustrations;  it is not a precise reconstruction. HOW SHE SURVIVED For 11 days, Juliane survived alone in the vast Amazon rainforest. DAY 1 After the crash, Juliane fell into the jungle and managed to get up despite serious injuries. Finding a Way She crawled through the dense forest, following a small stream as a guide. Food & Water She ate wild fruits, roots and small animals and drank water from the stream. Shelter She built a makeshift shelter using leaves and branches to protect herself. Resilience Despite being alone, injured and exhausted, she kept going-driven by the will to survive. ABOUT JULIANE KOEPCKE Born: 1964 Nationality: German – Peruvian Profession: Biologist, researcher and author Known for: Being the only survivor of LANSA Flight 508 and her lifelong dedication to the Amazon rainforest READ MORE ABOUT HER LIFE > CURRENT STATUS RESOLVED – SURVIVOR FOUND Juliane Koepcke survived the 1971 LANSA Flight 508 crash and was rescued after  about 11 days in the Peruvian Amazon. She later became a biologist and continued  her connection with the Amazon through scientific work the Panguana research station,  where she has been involved in preserving the rainforest and its biodiversity. Click here “Her story is a reminder of the incredible strength of the human spirit – and of the will to keep going, no matter how impossible the odds seem.”

SURVIVAL STORIES THE FOUR CHILDREN WHO SURVIVED IN THE AMAZON FOREST A Real Life Story of Courage, Endurance and Hope. 2023 Colombia (South America) 4 Children The children were found and rescued – but the mystery remains:  how they survived for 40 days in the Amazon rainforest. SURVIVAL STORIES THE FOUR CHILDREN WHO SURVIVED IN THE AMAZON FOREST A Real Life Story of Courage, Endurance and Hope. 2023 Colombia (South America) 4 Children The children were found and rescued – but the mystery remains:  how they survived for 40 days in the Amazon rainforest. QUICK FACTS Date of Crash: May 1, 2023 Location: Colombian Amazon rainforest Children: 4 (aged 11 month old infant, 4, 9 and 13) Survival Time: 40 Days Rescue: Found alive on June 9, 2023 BACKGROUND 2023 On May 1 , 2023, a small aircraft carrying seven people that have mother and her four Indigenous children, adult co-pilot/passenger and an adult pilot crashed in the dense Amazon rainforest of Columbia.The three adults did not survive, and the children – aged 11 month old (infant), 4, 9 and 13 – were left alone in one of the most remote and challenging environments on the Earth. EXPLORE FULL STORY > TIMELINE OF EVENTS MAY 1, 2023 Plane crashes in the Colombian Amazon rainforest on May 1, 2023. MAY 1-8 Children survive alone in the forest, relying on their skills and each other. MAY 9 – JUNE 8 Search and rescue teams, with local communities and military, search for the children. JUNE 9, 2023 The four children are found alive by the search teams after 40 days in the forest. HOW THEY SURVIVED For 40 days, the four children survived in Amazon rainforest. Here are the key factors that helped them endure: Food: They ate wild fruits, yuca (cassava) and other edible plants found in the forest. Water: They drank water from rivers and streams. Shelter: They built makeshift shelters using leaves and branches. Guidance: The older children took care of the younger ones showing incredible responisbility and strength. RESCUE OPERATION JUNE 9, 2023 After 40 days, the Colombian children were found alive during a search and rescue operation in the Amazon rainforest. Their survival in the Colombian Amazon became one of the most remarkable aspects of the rescue. They were found in the Amazon rainforest of Southern Colombia, near the Caqueta department, after an intensive search and rescue operation by local authorities, with the help of indigenous communities and helicopters. They were weak, hungry and dehydrated but alive. The team immediately provided medical care, food and safety and the children were later reunited with their family. RESCUE OPERATION > KEY INSIGHTS Extraordinary Resilience: The children’s survival for 40 days is a remarkable example of human endurances. Deep knowledge of forest: Their ability to find food and water suggests a natural understanding of Amazon rainforest. Strong family bond: The children supported and protected each other throughout the ordeal showing incredible unity and strength. CURRENT STATUS PARTIALLY RESOLVED The Colombian children’s Amazon survival story  ended with their successful rescue, but important  question remain about exactly how they survived  for 40 days in the Amazon rainforest ?  READ FULL REPORT > WHAT WE STILL DON’T KNOW What specific strategies did the children use to find food and water ? How did they mange to stay safe from wild animals and other dangers ? What role did luck play in their survival ? What details of their experience may still be unknown ? “Sometimes, the greatest stories of survival are written not by destiny, but by the extraordinary strength of the human spirit.”

HISTORICAL MYSTERIES THE PRINCES IN THE TOWER A royal disappearance that became one of  English’s greatest historical mysteries. 1483 Tower of London,England Edward V & Richard, Duke of York EXPLORE THE MYSTERY > HISTORICAL MYSTERIES THE PRINCES IN THE TOWER A royal disappearance that became one of English’s greatest historical mysteries. 1483 Tower of London,England Edward V & Richard EXPLORE THE MYSTERY > QUICK FACTS Edward V Born in 1470, King from 1483, age 12. Richard, Duke of York Born in 1473, age 9 in 1483. Tower of London Both boys were taken to tower in 1483. In teh year 1483 The boys disappeared from public view in summer of 1483. Fate Unknown No definitive evidence establishes what happened to them. THE TOWER OF LONDON A royal fortress with a dark and enduring history-and the final known location of the two young princes. VIEW HISTORICAL ACCOUNT > BACKGROUND Edward V , the eldest son of Edward IV, became king of England in 1483 at the age of 12, while his younger brother Richard, Duke of York, was 9 at that time. Their father died unexpectedly on 9 April 1483, leaving Edward as king. However, their uncle, Richard, Duke of Gloucester – later Richard III – took control of the government and brought the princes to the tower of London. VIEW FULL BACKGROUND > Edward V , the eldest son of Edward IV, became king of England in 1483 at the age of 12, while his younger brother Richard, Duke of York, was 9 at that time.Their father died unexpectedly on 9 April 1483, leaving Edward as king. However, their uncle, Richard, Duke of Gloucester – later Richard III – took control of the government and brought the princes to the tower of London. VIEW FULL BACKGROUND > TIMELINE OF EVENTS 9 APRIL 1483 Edward IV dies, leaving his son Edward as king. APRIL 1483 Edward travels toward London and is intercepted by his uncle Richard. MAY 1483 Edward reaches the Tower and is placed in its care. JUNE 1483 Richard, Duke of Gloucester, brings his brother to the Tower. JUNE 1483 Parliament questions the princes’ legitimacy. 16 JUNE1483 The princes are reportedly seen playing in the Tower’s garden-their last sighting. 6 JULY1483 Richard III is crowned king on 6 July, 1483. LATER IN 1483 The princes disappear from public view. What happened afterwards remains uncertain. KEY EVIDENCE CONTEMPORARY ACCOUNTS Accounts from the period, including those of Dominic Mancini describe the princes becoming increasingly unseen. THE TOWER OF LONDON Contemporary records confrim the boys were housed in the tower in the year 1483. 1674 SKELETON DISCOVERY Two children’s skeletons were found at the Tower during demolition work happened in 1674. LATER HISTORICAL ACCOUNTS Thomas More’s account, written decades later, accused Richard III – but he was not an eyewitness. HISTORICAL investigation INVESTIGATION OVER THE YEARS Historians have examined royal records, chronicles and archaeological evidence for centuries to try to uncover what happened to the princes. The 1674 discovery of two children’s skeletons was one of the most significant development even though their exact location remains debated. READ THE 1674 DISCOVERY > CURRENT STATUS UNSOLVED The historical record does not provide a  definitive explanation of what happened  to the two princes whose names were  Edward V & Richard, Duke of York in the year 1483. No proper evidence regarding their death  has been found till now in order to explain  what exactly happened with  them in the  tower. VIEW HISTORICAL RESEARCH > POSSIBLE EXPLANATIONS These are proposed explanations, not confirmed conclusions. THEORY 1 MURDERED ON RICHARD III’S ORDERS Richard III has traditionally been seen as the main suspect  STATUS: UNCONFIRMED THEORY 2 HENRY STAFFORD, DUKE OF BUCKINGHAM Buckingham has also been proposed as a possible participant. STATUS: UNCONFIRMED THEORY 3 HENRY VII / TUDOR INVOLVEMENT Some theories suggest political rivals may have had motives. STATUS: UNCONFIRMED THEORY 4 THE PRINCES SURVIVED The possibility of survival has also been discussed, though there is no evidence. STATUS: UNCONFIRMED EXPLORE THEORIES > WHAT WE STILL DON’T KNOW Who ordered their deaths – if they were killed ? Were the skeletons really the princes ? When did they die ? Where did they die ? What really happened inside the tower ? “History’s greatest mysteries are not just about what happened – but what we still don’t know.”

HISTORICAL MYSTERIES THE LOST COLONY OF ROANOKE The colony that disappeared – and left  behind one word. 1587 ROANOKE ISLAND VIRGINIA, USA EXPLORE THE CASE > HISTORICAL MYSTERIES THE LOST COLONY OF ROANOKE The colony that disappeared – and left behind one word. 1587 ROANOKE ISLAND VIRGINIA, USA EXPLORE THE CASE > QUICK FACTS YEAR In the year1587 LOCATION Roanoke Island, Virginia COLONY English Settlers (about 117-118 people) FAMOUS WORD “Croatoan” craved on a tree CLICK HERE > OFFICIAL HISTORICAL ACCOUNT Read more about the Roanoke Colony on the National Park Service and Library of Congress websites. VIEW OFFICIAL SOURCES > BACKGROUND The Roanoke Colony was a British settlement established in 1587 on the Roanoke Island, off the coast of present-day North Carolina, in what was then British Virginia. It was the third attempt by the English to establish a permanent colony in the region. Lead by the Sir Walter Raleigh, the colony was intended to expand English influence in the New World. In 1587, a group of settlers, including men, women and children arrived on Roanoke Island to build a new settlement, but within a few years, they vanished. VIEW FULL BACKGROUND > TIMELINE OF EVENTS 1584 English exploration of the region. 1585-1586 Earlier Roanoke settlement established. 1587 New colony established on Roanoke Island. July 1590 John White returns to England. Aug 1590 John White returns to Roanoke. 1590 Colony found abondoned when they check it. “CROATOAN” “CROATOAN” discovered carved on a tree. VIEW FULL TIMELINE > CONFIRMED FACTS 1587 The year in which the Roanoke colony was established in British-Virginia. Roanoke Island The colony was located off the coast of present day- North Carolina. About 117-118 people There were about 115 settlers including men, women and the children. “Croatoan” The word carved on a tree, the only clue left behind the people who used to live there. VIEW HISTORICAL FACTS > KEY CLUES THE CROATOAN CARVING The famous word “Croatoan” carved into a tree at the deserted settlement. THE SETTLEMENT Traces of the colony found on Roanoke Island, but no people found when John White returned in 1590. HISTORICAL RECORDS Letters and reports from the period, with no clear explanation for the disappearance of the colonists has been found. EXPLORE KEY CLUES > HISTORICAL RESEARCH INVESTIGATION OVER THE YEARS For centuries historians, archaeologists and researchers have searched for answers about the Lost Colony of Roanoke. Studies of historical records have provided clues, but no definitive explanation has been found. VIEW ARCHIVAL SOURCES > CURRENT STATUS UNSOLVED More than 430 years later, the fate of  the Lost Colony of Roanoke remains a mystery.  No definitive historical record exits to explain  what happened to the settlers. VIEW LATEST RESEARCH > POSSIBLE EXPLANATIONS These are proposed explanations, not established facts. THEORY 1 JOINED ANOTHERSETTLEMENT Some believe the colonists may have moved to nearby Spanish or English settlement. STATUS: UNCONFIRMED THEORY 2 LEFT FOR CROATOAN They may have gone to Croatoan Island, where they had  some known contacts. STATUS: UNCONFIRMED THEORY 3 CONFLICT ORHARDSHIP Disease, conflict with local tribes and other challenges may have forced their departure. STATUS: UNCONFIRMED THEORY 4 OTHER EXPLANATIONS Other ideas include capture, fleeing or  many other unknown events also that may have happened. STATUS: UNCONFIRMED READ MORE THEORIES > WHAT WE STILL DON’T KNOW Where did the colonists go ? Did they join another group ? What did “CROATOAN” mean ? What happened to the colony ? MYSTERY SOLVED? NOT SO FAST! “The mystery of Roanoke endures- a 16th century story with no final answer.”

AVIATION MYSTERIES THE MYSTERY OF D.B. COOPER The unidentified hijacker who disappeared after parachuting from  Northwest Orient Flight 305 in 1971. 24 NOV 1971 FLIGHT 305 IDENTITY UNKNOWN VIEW FBI CASE FILE AVIATION MYSTERIES THE MYSTERY OF D.B. COOPER The unidentified hijacker who disappeared after parachuting from  Northwest Orient Flight 305 in 1971. 24 NOV 1971 FLIGHT 305 IDENTITY UNKNOWN VIEW FBI CASE FILE QUICK FACTS DATE November 24, 1971. FLIGHT Northwest Orient Flight 305 ROUTE Portland, Oregon to Seattle, Washington RANSOM $200,000 in negotiable U.S. Currency STATUS Identity and whereabouts unknown OFFICIAL ACCOUNT The FBI’s official account of The Mystery of D.B Cooper. VIEW OFFICIAL FBI ACCOUNT > QUICK FACTS DATE November 24, 1971. FLIGHT Northwest Orient Flight 305 ROUTE Portland, Oregon to Seattle, Washington RANSOM $200,000 in negotiable U.S. Currency STATUS Identity and whereabouts unknown OFFICIAL ACCOUNT The FBI’s official account of The Mystery of D.B Cooper. VIEW OFFICIAL FBI ACCOUNT > BACKGROUND On the afternoon of November 24, 1971, a man using the name Dan Cooper bought a one-way ticket for Flight 305 from Portland, Oregon to Seattle, Washington. Shortly after takeoff, he handed a note to flight attendant stating he had a bomb and demanded $200,000 and four parachutes. When the aircraft landed in Seattle, the ransom was delivered. The passengers were released and the aircraft took off again for Mexico City. Sometime after takeoff, Cooper deployed his parachute and disappeared into the night. READ FULL BACKGROUND > CASE SNAPSHOT Year 1971 Type Hijacking Airline Northwest Orient Airlines Flight 305 From Portland (PDX) To Seattle (SEA) Suspect Unidentified (D.B. Cooper) TIMELINE OF EVENTS VIEW OFFICIAL FBI TIMELINE > 1:00 PM Cooper purchases a one-way ticket under the name of Dan Cooper. 2:50 PM Flight 305 departs Portland International Airport. 3:00 PM He hands a note to flight attendant claiming he has a bomb. 3:35 PM Demands $200,000 and four parachutes. 5:15 PM Aircraft lands in Seattle. Ransom delivered in $20 bills. 5:30 PM Passengers released. Cooper and crew take off for Mexico City. 8:00 PM Cooper exits the aircraft sometime after takeoff. UNKNOWN Then he vanishes without a trace. TIMELINE OF EVENTS VIEW OFFICIAL FBI TIMELINE > 1:00 PM Cooper purchases a one-way ticket under the name of Dan Cooper. 2:50 PM Flight 305 departs Portland International Airport. 3:00 PM He hands a note to flight attendant claiming he has a bomb. 3:35 PM Demands $200,000 and four parachutes. 5:15 PM Aircraft lands in Seattle. Ransom delivered in $20 bills. 5:30 PM Passengers released. Cooper and crew take off for Mexico City. 8:00 PM Cooper exits the aircraft sometime after takeoff. UNKNOWN Then he vanishes without a trace. CONFIRMED FACTS He used the name Dan Cooper. He demanded $200,000 and four parachutes. The ransom was supplied in $20 bills. He left the aircraft after it took off from Seattle. His identity was never definitively established. The FBI ended its active investigation in July 2016. VIEW OFFICIAL FACT SHEET > KEY EVIDENCE THE PLANE TICKET A one way ticket purchased using cash under the name Dan Cooper. THE RANSOM MONEY Most of the $200,000 ransom was later recovered along the Columbia River. THE PARASHUTES Four military surplus parachutes were delivered to Cooper in Seattle. THE TIE Cooper left behind his tie. It was examined for fingerprints and DNA. EXPLORE FBI EVIDENCE > FBI VAULT > OFFICIAL INVESTIGATION FBI INVESTIGATION The FBI immediately opened the case and named it ‘NORJAK’. It remains one of the most famous cases in FBI history. EVIDENCE EXAMINED Agents examined thousands of leads, interviewed witnesses and analyzed physical evidence using evolving techniques. SUSPECTS EXAMINED Over the years, hundreds of potential suspects were examined. None were positively identified. FINAL RESULT No conclusive evidence has ever identified Cooper or confirmed his fate. READ FBI INVESTIGATION OVERVIEW > CURRENT STATUS CASE STATUS UNSOLVED In July 2016, the FBI redirected the resources  previously devoted to the active D.B. Cooper  investigation. Evidence will be prepared  and any specific physical evidence  related to the case can still be brought  to the FBI. VIEW 2016 FBI UPDATE > OFFICIAL INVESTIGATION FBI INVESTIGATION The FBI immediately opened the case and named it ‘NORJAK’. It remains one of the most famous cases in FBI history. EVIDENCE EXAMINED Agents examined thousands of leads, interviewed witnesses and analyzed physical evidence using evolving techniques. SUSPECTS EXAMINED Over the years, hundreds of potential suspects were examined. None were positively identified. FINAL RESULT No conclusive evidence has ever identified Cooper or confirmed his fate. READ FBI INVESTIGATION OVERVIEW > CURRENT STATUS CASE STATUS UNSOLVED In July 2016, the FBI redirected the resources  previously devoted to the active D.B. Cooper  investigation. Evidence will be prepared  and any specific physical evidence  related to the case can still be brought  to the FBI. VIEW 2016 FBI UPDATE > DIFFERENT THEORIES These are proposed explanations, not confirmed conclusions. THEORY 1 Cooper Survived It’s possible he landed safely and lived under a new identity. STATUS: UNCONFIRMED THEORY 2 Did Not Survive The jump may have been fatal due to weather, terrain or eroor. STATUS: UNCONFIRMED THEORY 3 Inside Help Some believe Cooper had assistance in planning. STATUS: UNCONFIRMED THEORY 4 A Suspect Was Cooper Several suspects were considered, but none were confirmed. STATUS: UNCONFIRMED READ MORE ABOUT THIS > WHAT WE STILL DON’T KNOW Did he survive the jump ? Where did he land that night ? What happened to rest of ransom ? What was his true motive ? What happened to Cooper ? CHECK NATIONAL ARCHIVES FOR MORE INFORMATION > “The sky may have hidden him, but history has never forgotten.”