Conservationists are using spy satellites, cutting-edge computer technology, and an expert human network to build an “early warning system” for some of the planet’s greatest—and most threatened—archaeological sites.
“What we’re trying to do is really bring the world’s archaeologists, conservators, historians, and other experts together and help them organize and help manage these sites of interest. And we provide satellite mapping, scientific dossiers, information on legal status, all the relevant data about these sites so that people can make informed decisions,” explained Jeff Morgan, executive director of the Global Heritage Fund.
The Global Heritage Fund, Google Earth, and DigitalGlobe launched the Global Heritage Network (GHN) last spring. It makes oft-updated satellite imagery available online, 24 hours a day, so that expert eyes around the world can monitor changing ground conditions at iconic sites like Angkor Wat, Nineveh, Pompeii and dozens of others.
“We’re updating some 600 sites now on an annual basis and able to see changes down to the letters on a mailbox, thanks to Digital Globe satellite imagery,” Morgan said.
Finding trouble often doesn’t take such detail. Global Heritage estimates that about 200 of the 500 cultural heritage sites in the developing world are in danger of being lost to threats like looting, conflict, environmental disasters, and urbanization. Some are difficult to visit because they are remote or located in areas plagued by conflict or drug trafficking. And while all are officially protected many World Heritage sites are critically short of funds and personnel to actually safeguard them, Morgan said.
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