NASA’s decorrelation stretch technique, originally developed for enhancing satellite imagery, has been successfully applied to uncover ancient images in archaeological sites. This innovative method, conceived at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), enhances the visibility of faded artwork, allowing researchers to discover previously unnoticed details.
Discovery of Ancient Imagery
In the central tower of the ancient Cambodian temple of Angkor Wat, faded paintings of horseback riders and musical ensembles were overlooked by thousands of visitors. These images were rediscovered between 2010 and 2012 by an archaeologist utilizing the decorrelation stretch technique. This method heightens contrasts in digital images, making it easier to identify features that have become less visible over time.
Origins of the Technique
The decorrelation stretch technique was first applied to satellite imagery in the early 1990s. Jon Harman, a rock art enthusiast and former medical imaging professional, recognized its potential for revealing ancient images after observing its effectiveness on Martian surface images. He developed a plug-in for ImageJ, an open-source image processing program, which has since been used widely in archaeology.
Applications and Impact
Harman’s tool, known as Dstretch, has gained popularity among archaeologists, fulfilling around 200 requests annually. It has been instrumental in revealing imagery at various ancient sites, including locations in Norway, Egypt, and Canada. Beyond rock art, Dstretch has also aided in uncovering buried remains of ancient Greek structures and examining tattoos on mummified remains.
Harman expressed surprise at the diverse applications of Dstretch, noting its significant impact on the field of archaeology. The technique continues to evolve, with smartphone apps developed to mimic its effects, further broadening its accessibility and use in archaeological research.
For more information, visit www.nasa.gov.
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