Feature
Lasers and Optics in Archaeology
Optical technologies, from airborne lidar to handheld chemical analyzers, give researchers broad views of ancient civilizations, yet focus down to the smallest shards of glass.
Recent lidar surveys have expanded what we know about the history of Mesoamerica, including new discoveries in the city of Tikal, Guatemala, pictured here. [J. Strachan / Getty Images]
Countless movies, television shows and video games portray archaeologists as swashbuckling fighters who race against enemies to find priceless treasures.
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