The field of archaeology is bound to see various new findings and advancements in 2024. From AI discoveries to novel inscriptions, the world of archaeology is in for a pleasant surprise this year.
Archaeological Surprises in 2024
Renaissance For Lost Ancient Texts
The year could lead to a renaissance when it comes to the lost ancient text search. Last year, novel AI technologies enabled researchers to read carbonized texts that were previously illegible. These texts ended up carbonized following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. The text covered a lost book discovery that covered the history following Alexander the Great as well as a text that notes purple dye.
Such technologies are seeing rapid advancements. In 2024, the same technology, or even more advanced ones, could lead to the revelation of more lost ancient texts. This could offer notable data regarding the prehistoric world.
Using AI For War-Torn Territories
Novel and innovative approaches for monitoring looted and damaged archaeological sites could surface in 2024. This is a huge possibility thanks to artificial intelligence. AI could be used for analyzing high-resolution satellite images of damaged or looted sites more thoroughly and quickly compared to the human eye.
Moreover, the world could also see the use of advanced robots that may enter dangerous places to monitor the archaeological remains that are at high risk of looting or destruction. The robots could be able to send imagery or even perform conservation measures.
AI may also be used for browsing the internet and distinguishing artifacts that were stolen or looted.
More Inscriptions by Hadrian's Wall
The Roman fortress of Magna situated near Britain's Hadrian Wall, has only undergone minimal excavation despite its good preservation. Archaeologists have begun excavations in the summer of 2023. As the dig goes deeper in 2024, the site is bound to offer novel discoveries. For one, it is possible that various inscriptions could be uncovered at the site.
The excavation has led to high hopes for the British authorities. In fact, the National Lottery Heritage Fund has granted more than $2 million to support the efforts.
Non-Homo Sapien Burials
The subject of whether non-Homo sapiens hominids buried their dead has been a subject of debate in 2023. In fact, there was even a Netflix documentary that covered the argument. There was also a preprint study that claimed that the Homo baledi buried their dead. These species were hominids that lived 300,000 years ago and whose remains were discovered in a cave in South Africa. However, such claims were disputed by a different scientific team.
In 2024, more information regarding the matter could help address the concern. The world may expect more findings that could help bring resolution to the debate.
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