It is with a heavy heart that we confirm that Niu `Alani (pictured at left, orange on the map), has now been "lost" at sea for over 18 days. After traveling 4,515 brave miles and coasting the currents valiantly for 280 days, he has finally gone silent (he is no longer transmitting via satellite, caused by excess internal humidity). Perhaps someday, someone will find him and return him to us, when we will welcome him with open arms.

But may we not hang our heads for long, knowing that Niu `Alani had a long, happy life that has brought joy and knowledge to so many of us.  Let us remember the times when `Alani came just a few miles from Johnston Atoll and no doubt caught a glimpse of sea birds who came out to visit. And let us recall when `Alani made an abrupt 180 degree turn just south of Kauai and started to head back to Oahu, surely because he missed us dearly. Or, when `Alani became the first Niu to report back to us west of the International Date Line, gallantly bouncing along the waves in the tomorrow-land of the eastern hemisphere. And, of course, we will always remember our rendezvous with him off the coast of Hawaii Kai when we set him free of his foam belt that had been plaguing he and his mates those first few hours.

Niu `Alani remained close to his old friend Niu Poni throughout their entire journey, and was last heard from less than 200 miles from his favorite exploring partner. Amazing that after almost 5,000 miles together, they remained so in sync. Although Niu `Alani stopped reporting 1,200 miles from Tokyo, we know that he is cheering on Poni to continue his unfinished business, as well as his other friend, Hae Akala, that is sailing south in warmer waters.

Niu `Alani... thanks for the memories. May your orange streak across the sea live for all eternity in the hearts and minds of children everywhere. You shall be missed.

Lovingly,
The Project Niu Team