But it added hopefully, "Stay tuned."
This is Gillespie's sixth expedition to the island, halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand, on which he has been doggedly pursuing his theory that the famed aviator and her navigator, Fred Noonan, crashed on or near Nikumaroro in 1937.
Earhart was only 22 days from her 40th birthday when she plunged into the mists of history and legend that July day, seeking to become the first woman to circumnavigate the world.
Her disappearance has been one of the most intriguing mysteries of recent times.
Gillespie, 53, told the Daily News before he left for the Pacific that he was "a little nervous" because the satellite image had gotten worldwide publicity.
"This is an interesting lead," he said. "It's a possibility. Chances are it won't pan out. I will be happy if we come back with a few pieces that will help us get closer to the truth."
The image, taken by Space Imaging of Colorado, cost the nonprofit group $3,000.
Gillespie is more cautious these days about interpreting evidence about Earhart's disappearance. He was badly stung 10 years ago when he announced he had solved the mystery.
He thought he had found parts from Earhart's Lockheed Electra, but had to back off when tests failed to prove they were.
He still thinks Nikumaroro is the clue. "I am convinced as I can be that this is the right place," he said before he left. *
