Science
Digital contrast method derived from NASA aids archaeology discoveries
Software based on a NASA image-processing method reveals ancient artwork, according to Hacker News.
The short version
- A digital contrast method originated at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory is being used to uncover faded historical art, such as paintings at Angkor Wat.[Hacker News]
- Jon Harman adapted the decorrelation stretch process into Dstretch software after finding a 1996 paper by JPL's Ronald Alley.[Hacker News]
- The software has expanded to forensic and archaeological applications, including visualizing tattoos on mummified remains.[Hacker News]
Key facts
- The decorrelation stretch method enhances digital image contrasts to clarify subtle visual differences.[Hacker News]
- Between 2010 and 2012, an archaeologist used the NASA-conceived process to discover around 200 paintings at Angkor Wat.[Hacker News]
- Jon Harman created the Dstretch plug-in and mobile applications following a 1996 paper by JPL employee Ronald Alley.[Hacker News]
- In 2023, researchers published a protocol applying Dstretch to examine preserved tattoos on mummified human bodies.[Hacker News]
- Harman handles roughly 200 annual custom requests for $50 each, alongside thousands of $20 app downloads.[Hacker News]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.