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On July 19, Gerald Ollman and Robert Wayne, two researchers from the University of Maryland geophysics department were detained in Fort Meade, Maryland, apparently by agents of the National Security Agency, whilst taking measurements of the Earth's gravitational field. After 18 hours of questioning, they were released after being instructed not to discuss the incident. Their equipment and results were not returned.
Neither the University nor the NSA has commented on the incident. However, it is believed that Ollman and Wayne were investigating a slight anomaly in the Earth's gravitational field centered around Fort Meade. No reason has been given for their detention.
Missile targeting software depends on good models of the earth's gravity for accuracy, both for design and for simulation purposes. Since Ft. Meade was doubtless the target of many nukes during the cold war (and probably still is), that may account for them having a bug up their asses on the subject. 'Course you know the NSA; the world's largest employer of mathematicians, the largest purchaser of computer hardware, and the largest consumer of Thorazine. -- Thank you VERY much! You'll be getting a Handsome Simulfax Copy of your OWN words in the mail soon (and My Reply). <Andrew.Spring@ping.be> PGP Print: 0529 C9AF 613E 9E49 378E 54CD E232 DF96 Thank you for question, exit left to Funway.