Tests designed to reduce the tendency of amphibian planes to porpoise, or lunge when gathering speed for a takeoff are being conducted at Long Beach, Calif., by student engineers of California Institute of Technology. Specifically, they are attempting to verify a theoretical solution of the problem as worked out by the Cal Tech scientist, Prof. Robert Millikan. Used in the tests is a $6,000 scale model of a Consolidated twin-engine flying boat, designated as Model 31, which is attached by means of an outrigger to a fast speedboat. The model is hauled at varying speeds past stakes set at 30-foot intervals along shore, and the action on water is checked by members of the crew aboard the speedboat who take motion pictures and make constant speed recordings. Information on the travel angle of the model’s keel in relation to the water at various speeds and under different conditions is of particular value.