Preserving Archaeological Heritage with Satellite Data
Ancient History, Modern Technology
Highlights
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Non-Intrusive Monitoring: Detects displacement without physical interference with artifacts.
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Geohazard Assessment: Identifies risks such as subsidence or instability and reports findings to the Department of Antiquities.
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Proactive Preservation: Enables early restoration or stabilisation efforts to protect heritage sites.
To address the challenges of archaeological site monitoring, the DOMISI project, supported by the European Space Agency (ESA), focuses on leveraging advanced satellite technologies to safeguard Cyprus's rich cultural heritage.
The DOMISI project embodies the synergy between cutting-edge science and the need for preservation. By integrating satellite data with geotechnical insights, the project delivers a comprehensive understanding of ground movement and potential risks at archaeological sites. This approach supports proactive conservation strategies that help protect these irreplaceable treasures for future generations.
Introducing the DOMISI Project
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The Importance of Monitoring Archaeological Sites
Preserving archaeological sites is a vital task that bridges the past and the present. These sites hold invaluable insights into ancient civilizations, offering glimpses into their culture, technology, and way of life. However, their preservation comes with challenges, as natural and human-induced factors can jeopardise their structural integrity.
Monitoring these sites is essential not only for conservation efforts but also to ensure the safety of visitors who come to marvel at these historical treasures. Striking the right balance between protecting the sites and avoiding unnecessary disturbance to the artifacts requires innovative approaches.
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This is where modern technology steps in. Satellite-based remote sensing techniques, particularly Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR), provide a revolutionary method for monitoring archaeological sites without physical intrusion.
Case Study: Monitoring Ancient Ruins in Cyprus
Key Sites Under Observation
The DOMISI project includes several prominent archaeological sites, such as:
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Chirokitia: An ancient village featuring preserved Palaeolithic houses and structures.
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Paphos: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its ancient villas and intricate mosaics, where soil movement poses a risk to preservation.
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Amathus: An ancient city-state with significant ruins that require careful monitoring to mitigate the effects of natural decay and urban encroachment.
Insights from InSAR Analysis
By analysing satellite data over time, the DOMISI project has revealed patterns of ground movement that were previously undetectable. For example:
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Seasonal Ground Shifts: Fluctuations in groundwater levels due to seasonal irrigation practices have been linked to minor ground shifts, highlighting the need for better water management around archaeological sites.
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Localised Subsidence: Certain areas within larger sites have been identified as high-risk zones, enabling targeted restoration efforts.
The DOMISI project exemplifies how ancient history and modern technology can converge to protect cultural heritage. By leveraging satellite-based InSAR technology, Cyprus's archaeological treasures are being monitored with unprecedented accuracy, ensuring their preservation for generations to come.
This innovative approach not only addresses current challenges but also sets a roadmap for future conservation efforts. As we continue to refine our methods, the hope is that more archaeological sites worldwide will benefit from similar technologies, safeguarding the legacies of the past in an ever-changing world.
For more insights into the intersection of technology and heritage preservation, stay tuned for updates from the DOMISI project and explore how satellite monitoring is reshaping the future of conservation.
Conlusion
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