AI Uncovers 303 Unique Nazca Lines in Peru’s Desert
In a fascinating discovery, scientists have utilized artificial intelligence to reveal 303 previously unknown Nazca lines in Peru’s Nazca Desert. These lines, known as geoglyphs, are large figures etched into the ground across a vast expanse of approximately 170 square miles. The newly identified figures offer a glimpse into the ancient civilizations that once thrived in the Nazca Pampa region.
The Nazca Lines have long been a subject of intrigue and mystery, with their origins dating back to the Nazca civilization between 200 BC and 500 AD. These intricate artworks include a variety of motifs, ranging from abstract animals to potential ritual scenes. Among the newly discovered geoglyphs are alien-like human figures, severed heads, historical events, and even a strikingly detailed depiction of a killer whale holding a knife.
AI Revolutionizes Exploration
The use of artificial intelligence has revolutionized the exploration of the Nazca region, significantly accelerating the process of discovery. In the past, it took nearly a century to uncover 430 Nazca geoglyphs without the aid of AI. However, recent advancements in satellite technology have enabled researchers to identify a majority of the geoglyphs within the past two decades.
For this groundbreaking study, researchers from Yamagata University trained an AI model to detect subtle outlines of the geoglyphs, leading to the identification of previously overlooked shapes in satellite imagery. The AI model proved to be 20 times faster than humans at identifying faint lines, producing a list of potential geoglyph works, including those in previously unexplored areas of Peru.
Exploring the Unseen
Armed with the information provided by the AI model, researchers embarked on a field expedition between September 2022 and February 2023 to investigate the suggested sites. To their amazement, they confirmed that 303 of the AI-suggested locations indeed housed new Nazca Lines. These newly discovered geoglyphs shed light on the diverse range of figures present in the ancient landscape, from abstract animals to intricate human motifs.
The researchers noted significant disparities between relief-type and line-type geoglyphs, with relief-type geoglyphs being characterized by their smaller size and complex patterns compared to the larger and more linear line-type geoglyphs. Relief-type geoglyphs predominantly depict human motifs or objects modified by humans, such as domesticated animals and decapitated heads. They are typically located within viewing distance of ancient trails, suggesting they were likely built and viewed at the individual or small-group level.
Future Discoveries
Based on the current rate of discovery, researchers anticipate identifying an additional 250 geoglyphs in the coming years, further enriching our understanding of the ancient Nazca civilization. The findings of this groundbreaking study were published in the prestigious journal PNAS, highlighting the significance of AI in uncovering hidden treasures of the past.
The discovery of 303 unique Nazca lines in Peru’s desert marks a significant milestone in the field of archaeology, showcasing the potential of artificial intelligence in unraveling the mysteries of ancient civilizations. As researchers continue to explore the vast expanse of the Nazca Desert, we can expect to uncover even more hidden geoglyphs that offer valuable insights into the rich cultural heritage of the region.