Artificial intelligence has played a pivotal role in the recent discovery of 303 previously unknown geoglyphs in Peru’s Nazca Desert.
Researchers employed advanced AI algorithms to survey and identify these ancient symbols, which include depictions of birds, plants, and human-like figures.
Revolutionising Archaeology with AI
Archaeologists in Peru have harnessed the power of artificial intelligence to uncover hidden geoglyphs in the Nazca Desert. This technological advancement has significantly accelerated the rate of discovery, nearly doubling the number of known symbols in the region.
The study, published in the journal PNAS, detailed how AI-assisted methods have identified giant symbols carved into the ground by moving stones or gravel, dating back around 2,000 years.
The Discovery Process
The research team, led by Professor Masato Sakai of Japan’s Yamagata University, utilised high-resolution imagery to train an object detection AI model. Despite the limited number of images available, the AI model proved to be a remarkable tool in narrowing down potential sites.
The AI suggested over 47,000 locations, covering 629 square kilometres (243 square miles) of the desert. From these, the researchers identified 1,309 candidate sites with high potential.
Fieldwork between September 2022 and February 2023 verified 303 of these geoglyphs. This included 178 sites suggested by the AI and 125 additional finds, 66 of which were part of an AI-discovered cluster of geoglyphs.
Challenges and Human Intervention
Human oversight was essential in the process, as the AI model needed validation through on-the-ground surveys.
Fieldwork involved researchers combing the desert by foot and using drones to confirm the AI’s suggestions. Discoveries were often straightforward in well-preserved areas, but some regions required detailed fieldwork.
The AI-driven approach reduced labour and directed focus toward valuable, targeted fieldwork, marking a shift in archaeological search methods.
Potential for Future Discoveries
The team estimates that many more geoglyphs await discovery. Approximately 968 promising candidates remain unsurveyed.
Based on the initial success rate of fieldwork, it is estimated that at least 248 additional geoglyphs could be identified in the future.
The use of AI continues to revolutionise archaeological methods, promising further significant discoveries in the Nazca Desert and beyond.
Analysing the Geoglyphs’ Purpose
The purpose of these symbols remains a topic of debate among researchers. Theories range from them being part of a sacred space, used in calendars, or even related to movement activities like running or dancing.
An analysis of the new symbols, in combination with previously known ones, revealed distinct patterns. Larger geoglyphs, visible from above, generally depict animals or plants, while smaller ones often involve human figures or domesticated llamas.
Sakai’s team is continuing to work on deciphering the meanings behind these geoglyphs, with future publications expected to shed more light on their mysterious purposes.
Implications for Archaeology
The success of AI in archaeological research exemplifies its transformative potential. While AI models are not yet perfect, they offer substantial benefits in identifying promising archaeological sites.
Amina Jambajantsan, a researcher and data scientist, highlighted the need for collaboration between data scientists and archaeologists to maximise the benefits of AI in this field.
The fusion of AI technology with traditional archaeological methods represents a significant advancement, paving the way for future breakthroughs.
Concluding Remarks
The discovery of 303 new geoglyphs in the Nazca Desert marks a milestone in archaeological research, showcasing the potential of AI-assisted methods.
As researchers continue to explore these ancient symbols, the blend of technology and human expertise promises further revelations about the Nazca culture and its artistic expressions.
The use of AI in the discovery of ancient geoglyphs in Peru’s Nazca Desert highlights the transformative potential of technology in archaeology.
This breakthrough not only increases our understanding of the Nazca culture but also sets a precedent for future archaeological discoveries.
