Great Salt Lake Flat Earth Curvature Investigation
On April 27, 2024, the Beehive Skeptics Foundation partnered with local Meetup group Utah Flat Earth to perform a joint observational experiment across the Great Salt Lake. The objective was to test for physical obstruction caused by Earth's curvature across a 21-mile sight line between Antelope Island and the southern shoreline near Interstate 80.
Measured Curvature Obstruction: 208 Feet
By using high-powered directional lights and synchronized elevation measurements, both teams confirmed that dropping below the line of sight obstructed the light source. The resulting physical drop measured 208 feet of curvature over the water.
Official Test Video (04/27/2024)
Watch the full documentation of the joint investigation with Utah Flat Earth:
Watch "Flat Earth Test - Official" on YouTube
Testing Methodology & Criteria
To eliminate environmental variables like blue-light atmospheric refraction or laser beam dispersion (which plagued earlier laser tests), the test protocol used flashlights, altimeters, and strict sight line controls:
- Light Source Dispersion: High-powered flashlights were selected over lasers to prevent beam divergence over 20+ miles from shining above the horizon curve.
- Controlled Sight Line: Teams positioned at Buffalo Point on Antelope Island and the south shoreline adjusted elevation in real time until the light source reached a "sweet spot" (visible when raised, blocked when lowered).
- Elevation & Altimeter Logging: Starting and ending altitudes were recorded at water level and viewing locations using hiking altimeters.
- Observed Light Cut-off: Lowering the light source by only a couple of feet caused the light to disappear into an afterglow and vanish behind the water horizon.
Initial Preliminary Test (03/09/2024)
Prior to the joint test with Utah Flat Earth, Beehive Skeptics conducted an initial trial on March 9, 2024 across a 25.8-mile baseline to scout elevations, verify GPS data, and test light visibility at scale. Since we wern't managing a larger group it was easier to get slightly higher quality video in this test:
Watch "Beehive Skeptics Investigates Flat Earth!" on YouTube
Conclusion
When claims are put to the test using empirical controls and repeatable methodology, the physical curvature of the Earth is clearly measurable over large bodies of water. We commend the members of Utah Flat Earth for engaging in open dialogue and participating in direct scientific field testing. They have requested a follow up daytime test that can likley be performed with mirrors, and posibly a high resolution, high zoom camera. So stay tuned!
Interested in joining our next field investigation or testing an extraordinary claim? Check our upcoming events or apply for the Paranormal Challenge.