Starbuck Island: Unraveling the Mystery Behind the Google Earth Video
June 3, 2024 World & Culture
What is on Starbuck Island? This question captivated millions in July 2021 when a TikTok video featuring a Google Earth exploration of the remote island went viral.
The Viral Video
The video, posted by TikTok user @hidden.on.google.earth, quickly gained over 5 million views. Specializing in uncovering intriguing finds on Google Earth, the account zoomed in on Starbuck Island, revealing a mysterious object on the beach accompanied by the letters "WTF."
The video’s creator asked, "What is this?" The imagery suggested a trench-like path leading to what appeared to be a man-made structure, sparking a wave of curiosity and speculation.
TikTok Commenters' Theories
TikTok users offered various humorous and imaginative theories. Some suggested it was the Millennium Falcon from "Star Wars," while others joked it was Noah's Ark, a UFO, or even a Blockbuster Video. The most popular jest was that the site might be an old Starbucks Coffee location.
The Real Story
Despite the entertaining guesses, the true explanation was more mundane. National Geographic videos from 2009 documented Dr. Enric Sala and the Ocean Now team's expedition to Starbuck Island, revealing old dwellings near the beach. These structures, visible in satellite images, debunked the mystery.
Historical Context of Starbuck Island
Starbuck Island, part of the Line Islands in Kiribati, lies 336 miles south of the equator and 2,000 miles from Honolulu, Hawaii. Discovered in 1823 by Nantucket captain Valentine Starbuck, the island spans eight square miles and is home to seabirds, green turtles, sharks, and manta rays. Historically, it was known for shipwrecks and 19th-century guano mining.
Notable Shipwrecks
Numerous shipwrecks have occurred on Starbuck Island. One dramatic account from The Daily Examiner in 1887 described the perilous fate of the bark Diana’s crew, who were stranded after their vessel struck a reef. The survivors endured harrowing conditions and were eventually rescued after a challenging journey to nearby islands.
The viral TikTok video about Starbuck Island highlights the enduring allure of remote locations and the power of digital exploration. While the initial discovery might have seemed extraordinary, the real story provides a fascinating glimpse into the island's history and the lives of those who encountered its shores.