Project Skydrop: Andover Meteorologist Finds a Hidden Treasure in the Woods

You're invited to hear Meteorologist Dan Leonard recount his adventure solving Project Skydrop, a real-world treasure hunt for a $26,000 gold statue and an $87,000 Bitcoin wallet. The challenge, launched on September 19, tasked participants with finding the hidden treasure on public land within a 500-mile radius of Washington, D.C. to New England. Daily aerial photos and a livestream of the forest floor, along with real-time temperature data, provided geographic clues.

Initially unsure of his chances, Leonard realized his meteorology skills could give him an edge. By analyzing temperature data and correlating it with sunlight patterns visible in the livestream, he pinpointed Franklin County as the search zone. To refine his target area, he tracked cloud cover and studied tree types, eventually narrowing the location to just a few pockets of forest.

On October 1, Leonard set out to search and, as darkness fell, discovered the golden statue hidden beneath fallen leaves. After weeks of meticulous analysis, he felt immense pride and relief, knowing his late nights and detailed preparation had paid off. “It was a relief,” he said, “that I didn’t just do this all for nothing.”

But that was not the end of the quest. What seemed straightforward to access the Bitcoin reward soon turned into a far more complicated journey. Leonard had to navigate a series of dramatic twists, including a stolen treasure, accusations of deceit, and a resolution marked by forgiveness and reconciliation.

Andover Trails is thrilled to sponsor this event as part of our outdoor adventure series. After the talk, we will announce our own treasure hunt for youth and families along Andover’s network of footpaths for a small prize to be held this coming April! Sign up now and stay tuned!
Cost: $18 per person, includes pizza and one beer coupon.

See the article and video on The Weather Channel.

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