3D Laser Scanners Are Helping Find Hidden Chambers in Egyptian Pyramids

3D laser scanners have been helping preserve historical sites and ancient artifacts for the past few years. Researchers have continued to use this technology because entire teams are dedicated to advancing this technology creating new benefits and advantages to it. 3D laser scanners have now entered Egyptian tombs to help locate secret chambers that researchers have not been able to see.

In 2015 there were claims from researchers that once believed King Tutankhamun’s tomb had a secret connecting room that may or may not lead to Queen Nefertiti. The idea had been shot down many times. Still, since the original theory came out, the researchers have adopted the use of 3D laser scanners to help identify more chambers and get accurate details of the tombs.

What is 3D laser scanning

3D laser scanners can be handheld devices or added to a moving vehicle that collects information on an object or scene. It can capture thousands of images per second, collecting microscopic details that no human can see. It is incredibly precise, and the quality of the photos are clear. It is one of the best ways to create replicas of ancient artifacts because it requires no human touch and no molds.

Once the images are captured, it is then stored in the cloud, where it can be saved forever. It has the option to be sent across the world in minutes rather than days. It is a vital way to share and spread information. After the data is collected and saved, it can be downloaded in a partnering program that can be edited and turned into a model. This model can 3D print exact replicas of a place, or create virtual reality for someone to walk into.

The type of 3D laser scanner that the team used to research the Egyptian pyramids also used radar detection. This was able to figure out where individual chambers are even if they could not see it by their own eyes.

Previous scans shot down the theory that there was another chamber

Other scans in the past were confined to the inside of the pyramid. However, another scan has been done, and it was the surrounding area of the pyramid, which gives accurate readings. With both the inside of the pyramid and its surrounding terrain scanned, researchers can create a better model, that shows something else could be connected to the burial site.

One report says,“The findings – in an unpublished report, details of which have been seen by Nature – resurrect a controversial theory that the young king’s burial place hides the existence of a larger tomb, which could contain the mysterious Egyptian queen Nefertiti.”

The verdict

As more companies come out trying to compete, making 3D laser scanners better and faster, more researchers will adopt this technology. This will make discoveries in ancient sites easier and will help researchers preserve artifacts that they have already found.

One day soon, thanks to 3D laser scanners, researchers will be able to solve every mystery the ancient Egyptians set in place. We will learn more about ancient Egypt in the years to come, thanks to technology.