Show Me Science Advanced: Archaeology—Technological Advances

This short but fascinating overview looks at technological developments from various fields of science that have been repurposed for archeological research. Virtual image-building, for example, is being applied to excavations of ancient human sites. The Greek city of Troy has been reconstructed using a computer program to reveal 3D detail, all of it based on discoveries (some going back a century) made from Troy's ruins. Another technology useful to archaeologists is the spectral analysis of ancient objects made of metal, which helps pinpoint both the exact ages of and the means by which these items were created. Powerful, digitized versions of metal detectors also enable scientists to find the tiniest artifacts deeply embedded in the ground, while new software makes it possible to “see” purposeful patterns in the placement of stones. Serving up an intriguing overview, this is highly recommended. Aud: J, H, P. (T. Keogh)