Use satellite data to detect ancient tomb theft

Scientists around the world are now using images from high-resolution satellites to identify places where grave robbers are looting.

Tombs located in a remote area of ​​northwestern China are now targeted by professional grave robbers, experts from the University of Bern in Switzerland and the University of Sydney, Australia.

A large number of early Iron Age cultural heritages in this area are long-sighted targets and in fact it has taken place. Despite the preventive measures, the ancient tomb theft problem continues.

Antiques are the target of gangs who steal ancient tombs.

"We especially chose a region of concern in Xinjiang, China. Due to the remote geographical location and the fierce protection of the regional security forces, the ancient tombs are quite fortunate. integrity, " said researcher Gino Caspari, from the Institute of Archeological Sciences at the University of Bern.

However, satellite data shows that robbers have found a way to "visit " most graves. More than 74.5% of the analyzed burial tombs were destroyed and plundered.

Ancient nomadic tribes in the area often bury their dead in large mounds with gold jewelry and sophisticated weapons. This is an attractive target for grave robbers.

Gaspari has been studying satellite data since 2003 and found that since then, the number of grave graves has increased significantly.

"The last untouched archaeological sites of the ancient steppe nomads are seriously threatened , " Gaspari worries.

Using satellite data plays an extremely important part in discovering ancient tombs for archaeologists.

Previously, experts have also exploited spy satellite images and unmanned aircraft to help locate a lost ancient city in northern Iraq or search for Viking settlements in North America.