Finding the Loch Ness monster: Biggest hunt for Nessie in 50 years starts soon

This summer's search for Nessie is the largest since the Loch Ness Investigation Bureau studied the 240-metre-deep loch in 1972.

The Scottish Highlands are breathtaking, but a group of eager monster hunters are hoping to find more than just sweeping landscapes.

This weekend, hundreds of folklore enthusiasts are set to flood to Scotland’s Loch Ness in an attempt to solve the country’s biggest mystery: the existence of the Loch Ness monster.

On Aug. 26 and 27, organizers from the Loch Ness Centre will lead volunteers on the largest search for the freshwater beast, affectionately nicknamed Nessie, in nearly 50 years.

While monster hunter volunteers search for signs of Nessie’s existence from land, drones with infrared cameras will be flown over the water, and a hydrophone will be used to detect sounds from the creature beneath the surface. Much of this technology has never been used in Loch Ness before now.

The event will also be livestreamed for international hunters unable to make it to Scotland.

The search for Nessie is reportedly the largest since the Loch Ness Investigation Bureau studied the 240-metre-deep loch in 1972. The bureau was established in the 1960s to search for giant creatures in the water.

Alan McKenna, the founder of Loch Ness Exploration who will lead volunteers this weekend, told The Guardian he and his team have always strived to find answers for difficult-to-explain phenomena.

“It’s our hope to inspire a new generation of Loch Ness enthusiasts,” he said. “By joining this large-scale surface watch, you’ll have a real opportunity to personally contribute towards this fascinating mystery that has captivated so many people from around the world.”