Remote sensing aids in heritage protection

Remote sensing is playing a more important role in the preservation of world heritage, experts said Wednesday at the ongoing fourth International Conference on Remote Sensing in Archaeology. Patrick Mckeever, a geologist and representative from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), said remote sensing technology has been successfully used in the study of natural and cultural heritage, especially the potential impact of climate change. Pan Jiaofeng, deputy secretary-general of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), said a great amount of archaeological data has been acquired since the 1970s with the help of remote sensing technology. "The combined use of remote sensing, geographic information systems and virtue reality has enabled people to conduct in-depth studies and 3D exhibitions for cultural relics and historic sites," Pan said. Guan Qiang, an official from the State Administration of Cultural Heritage, said remote sensing has been used more extensively in archaeology, leading to the discovery of many cultural relics that date back several thousand years. The restoration of the Great Wall, the 3D remodeling of the Imperial Palace and Mogao Grottoes in northwest China's Gansu Province were made possible through the use of new technology, according to Guan. The three-day conference is being sponsored by CAS and UNESCO. Initiated in 2004 by the CAS, the conference acts as a platform for global experts to find ways to better monitor, protect and administer natural and cultural heritage through the use of technology.