Forensic experts believe they have unearthed a key piece of evidence in the circumstances surrounding the mysterious death of famous aviator Amelia Earhart, calling it a major breakthrough.

Researchers at Penn State University’s Radiation Science and Engineering Centre claim they used advanced imaging techniques to re-analyse a metal panel, found on the island of Nikumaroro in 1991, that is believed to have come from Earhart’s aircraft.

Their scans revealed hidden letters and numbers on the aluminium panel that could help to identify it – and confirm whether or not it did come from the missing plane.

They believe that if this is proven correct, this discovery could add weight to the popular theory that Earhart made it to Nikumaroro after she lost contact as she approached Howland Island.

Earhart and her navigator Fred Noonan disappeared over the central Pacific Ocean mid-1937 during her attempt to become the first woman to fly around the globe.

Read more: Independent