AI, imaging tech reveal hidden ancient sites beneath desert sands

The Mirror describes in its article that a groundbreaking fusion of artificial intelligence and advanced imaging technology is revolutionizing the field of archaeology. 

Archaeologists have leveraged a revolutionary combination of artificial intelligence and advanced imaging technology to uncover ancient sites buried beneath desert sands.

The shifting sands and expansive nature of desert landscapes have long made traditional ground surveys challenging, but the use of AI-powered Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology has enabled a remarkable breakthrough in discoveries.

The groundbreaking technology was deployed in the Dubai Desert, where researchers uncovered remnants of ancient human civilizations that date back 5,000 years. Remarkably, these discoveries, including ancient settlements and pathways, were made without the need for any physical excavation.

According to Daily Galaxy, the technology has offered remarkable insights into how early communities thrived in harsh environments. "Discovering these sites without excavation feels like uncovering hidden chapters of history," says Maria Gonzalez, an archaeologist involved in the project. "It provides thrilling new perspectives on how ancient civilizations adapted to these challenging conditions."

SAR is a remote sensing technology that employs radar signals to generate high-resolution images of the Earth's surface, capable of penetrating vegetation, ice, and sand. Researchers have combined it with machine learning algorithms to analyze SAR data and detect patterns and anomalies. When trained on known archaeological sites, the AI can identify features that indicate the presence of buried settlements or other human-made structures.

Dubai isn’t the only desert where this combination of technologies has proven successful. In Mongolia, the same approach has been employed to uncover thousands of possible medieval sites, while researchers in the Arabian Peninsula have mapped ancient trade networks by tracing the pathways connecting settlements.

“AI can significantly enhance our ability to protect and understand cultural heritage,” a UNESCO spokesperson stated, adding: “Innovations like these are crucial for advancing our knowledge of ancient civilizations while ensuring their preservation.”

However, combining AI with archaeology comes with its challenges. The technology is costly to deploy, requiring satellites, aerial platforms, and data processing infrastructure.

The data can also be tricky to interpret, as natural formations can sometimes be mistaken for man-made structures. Additionally, the discovery of new archaeological sites can raise ethical questions about ownership and preservation.

Despite these challenges, Dr. Li Wei, a remote sensing expert at the National University of Singapore, is confident that AI will become an essential tool for researchers in the future. He stated: “As we refine these algorithms, the accuracy and utility of AI in uncovering hidden archaeological sites will improve, making it an indispensable tool for researchers worldwide.”

By Naila Huseynova