u/Crafty_Whereas6733

I have been working to plot every set of tracks (represented as light single dotted line segments) along with the numerous heavily traversed paths/deleted roads (represented by single dashed line segments).

The first photo is the latest map, output as a JPG.

The second photo is justification for marking the northern hidden access road. It is also indicated on a 1941 topographical map (third photo).

The fourth photo justifies three additional missing roads, one from the northwest->southeast, another are two south access roads that lead back to Groom Lake. All three were excluded while other, lesser roads (including older prospect roads/access) were still plainly marked.

The fifth photo verifies that a significant amount of traffic exits the dry lake bed->the shore, driving on the lakebed itself and in the vicinity of the AOI.

The sixth photo shows each individual track grouped into clusters by destination, which are themselves represented as light, single dotted line segments. Repeated vehicle activity, heading to the same destination.

The patterns of unusual traffic at S4 Papoose Lake can reveal a great deal about the goings-on at this site.

First we start with measuring the distance between tire tracks, so we can get some idea of the different types of vehicles being operated there. Unsurprisingly, many are ~96" wide (consistent with a Blue Bird school bus). There are also measurements both wider and thinner, indicating a variety of vehicles operating in the area. This tracks with what a preponderance of evidence already says is true.

It is important to note these are not random tracks. Altho some clearly do not head directly to S4, many originate in the same location and terminate at S4. The eastern shore of the dry lake bed shows significant activity, with quite a few vehicles following along the shore until reaching a spot near a natural wash, which evidence indicates they use to access the eastern shore from the dry lake bed. The overlaying and side-by-side tracks indicate someone isn't just driving there, but a bunch of someone's are driving to the same place on numerous occasions. This, too, tracks with what we know about S4.

Because we just recently started getting true high resolution imagery of the site, it will be difficult to assess patterns and change over time. As newer imagery continues to come in, this will no doubt make the task of finding and validating tracks even easier. For now, I'll share what is currently visible and how they relate to the overall (updated accurate) topographical map. Since we do know the lake gets flooded on an annual basis, it is fair to assume at least some of those tracks are fresh. Studies of the area's hydrology would be likely to bare fruit in this respect.

The search continues.