GeoCaching Adventures Include Monolithic Domes
April 14, 2004
GeoCaching is like going on a treasure hunt for grown-ups. It is a pastime which is growing in fervor. There are many varieties of the game. The most common way to play the game is to buy a *GPS (Global Positioning Unit), log on to www.geocaching.com, decide on a cache, locate it and either, A) Take something from the cache or B) Leave something in the cache. In addition, you always write about it in the logbook located at the site, or online.
But there are other ways to play the game. According to the GeoCaching website, a few examples are:
- Offset Caches - They're not found by simply going to some coordinates and finding a cache there. With the Offset Cache the published coordinates are that of an existing historical monument, plaque, or even a benchmark that you would like to have your cache hunter visit. From this site the cache hunter must look around and find offset numbers stamped/written in or on some part of the marker site, or continue based on instructions posted to geocaching.com
- Multi-caches - The first cache gives coordinates (or partial
coordinates) to the next location, or multiple caches have hints to
the final cache.
- Virtual caches - A cache is actually an existing landmark, such as a tombstone or statue. You have to answer a question from the landmark and let the "cache" owner know as proof that you were there.
The Monolithic Dome Institute headquarters in Italy, Texas and many other domes across the US have been pinpointed as Virtual Cache locations. Hints such as "Unique Italian Architecture" have been given regarding the caterpillar in Italy, Texas. Players have been asked a variety of questions as proof they've been here, such as, "How many boots does Bruco, the Texas Italian Caterpillar have?"
Another way domes are involved in this phenomenon is by way of a Locationless (Reverse) Cache. This type of caching is done when cachers look for a certain type of object anywhere in the world. They photograph it, note its coordinates and add it to an online log. Interestingly enough, because of this, we at the Monolithic Dome Institute have been able to locate more and more domes to be used as comparables to help with Dome appraisals.
*Note: A GPS unit is a electronic device that can determine your approximate location (within around 6-20 feet) on the planet. Coordinates are normally given in Longitude and Latitude. You can use the unit to navigate from your current location to another location. Some units have their own maps, built-in electronic compasses, voice navigation, depending on the complexity of the device.
If interested in learning more GeoCaching, visit the official GeoCaching website for official membership and rules.
177
Dome Park Place - Italy, TX 76651
Tel (972)483-7423 - Fax (972)483-6662
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