Mapping Machu Picchu Using LiDAR
"This modern technology [LiDAR] has helped capture images that might provide evidence of paths crossing the landscape, other terraces; this evidence suggests hidden constructions". Click on the image to learn more about this project.
The ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu us nestled high in the Peruvian mountains. Historians believe Machu Picchu was constructed around 1450. Machu Picchu has always been a difficult site to map due to its remote location and surrounding landscape.
Recently, LiDAR technology was used to further map the ancient Inca city. The device was attached to a helicopter, which was flown over the site. The LiDAR sensor collected massive amount of data.
The results showed newly discovered Inca trails and terraces. The results also showed locations where there have been previous slides and erosion. Researchers are hopeful to utilize remote sensing technologies to further map the site.
