Imagine rummaging around an ancient, amphorae-littered shipwreck in your own personal submersible. That possibility will soon be at your fingertips. Researchers led by computer scientist Paul Chapman at the University of Hull, England, have developed a simulator that gives users the virtual experience of exploring sunken wrecks. The simulator combines computer science with high-tech sonar to create three-dimensional virtual maps brought to life with high-resolution photos taken by divers and unmanned vehicles. The project Is called VENUS (for Virtual Exploration of Underwater Sites), and has already mapped two shipwrecks, one off the Italian island of Pianoso, the other near Sesimbra, Portugal. A third mission is set to map a wreck near Marseille, France. The VENUS data help archaeologists pinpoint the most likely spots to find cargo. For the public, it provides an amazing look at deep sea archaeology. While the simulator will be housed at the Deep Aquarium in Hull, the experience will also be accessible online. Chapman hopes VENUS will promote the preservation of underwater sites threatened by looting, erosion and deep sea trawling, and also encourage the study of marine archaeology. A deeply cool idea.
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Source: ASEE Prism
