⛰️ AI help discover 303 new geoglyphs in Peru

⛰️ AI help discover 303 new geoglyphs in Peru

Scientists have found 303 previously unknown geoglyphs in the Nazca desert using artificial intelligence and drones. The AI technology could filter out 98 percent of the image material and identify potential geoglyphs with high precision.

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  • Scientists have found 303 previously unknown geoglyphs in the Nazca desert using artificial intelligence and drones.
  • The AI technology could filter out 98 percent of the image material and identify potential geoglyphs with high precision.
  • The newly discovered figures include depictions of plants, humans, snakes, monkeys, cats, parrots, and llamas.

AI and drones streamline archaeological research

A research team led by archaeologist Masato Sakai from Yamagata University in Japan has discovered 303 previously unknown geoglyphs in the Nazca desert in southern Peru. The discovery was made by combining artificial intelligence with drones that flew over an area of 243 square miles, reports the NY Times.

The AI system analyzed aerial photographs and could identify faint contours in the ground. Of 47,410 potential sites flagged by the AI, researchers reviewed high-resolution photos and selected 1,309 candidates for closer examination. After fieldwork with drones and ground surveys, 303 new geoglyphs were confirmed.

Historical significance and cultural heritage

The Nazca lines were created between 200 BC and 700 AD by scraping away the rust-colored surface layer to expose the yellow-gray subsoil. The newly discovered figures are on average 30 feet long and are mainly found along a network of trails that wind through the desert.

According to Sakai, the geoglyphs were drawn near pilgrimage routes to temples, suggesting they functioned as sacred spaces for community rituals. The newly discovered figures were likely created by individuals and small groups to share information about rituals and animal husbandry.

Further discoveries await

Of the original 1,309 candidate sites, Sakai estimates there are at least 500 more undiscovered figures in the area. Artificial intelligence has proven to be an effective tool for finding these historical remains in the vast desert landscape.

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