Cold war spy satellites and AI detect ancient underground aqueducts
Archaeologists are using artificial intelligence and Cold War satellite imagery to locate ancient qanats, vital underground aqueducts from North Africa and the Middle East, enhancing understanding of historical water management.
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Archaeologists are leveraging artificial intelligence and Cold War-era US spy satellite imagery to locate ancient underground aqueducts, known as qanats, which were crucial for human survival in arid regions. These qanats, some dating back 3,000 years, are primarily found in North Africa and the Middle East and were engineered to transport water from mountainous areas to lower elevations. The use of AI allows researchers to analyze satellite images for signs of these long-lost structures, which have largely disappeared over time. This innovative approach not only aids in the rediscovery of historical water management systems but also enhances our understanding of ancient civilizations and their adaptation to challenging environments.
- Archaeologists are using AI and Cold War satellite imagery to find ancient qanats.
- Qanats are underground aqueducts that date back up to 3,000 years.
- These structures were essential for water transport in arid regions of North Africa and the Middle East.
- The integration of AI in archaeology allows for more efficient analysis of historical sites.
- This research contributes to a better understanding of ancient human adaptation to desert environments.
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