Hi-tech aerial view into the past

AN EXHIBITION of high-tech aerial images of Irish archaeological sites at Dublin Airport was recently launched by Minister of State for European Affairs, Paschal Donohue.

The

‘Traces Of The Past’ exhibition features examples of the latest digital imaging techniques being used to shed new light on ancient habitations and burial sites around the country.

The images include many newly revealing images of well-known Irish archaeological locations including Newgrange in Co Meath, Skellig Michael in Co Kerry and Navan Fort in Co Armagh.

The exhibition is organised by the Discovery Programme, an archaeological research body operating under the aegis of the Heritage Council.

The images are accompanied by extensive technical information and historical references.

The exhibition is the result of an EU initiative that brings together experts from across Europe to promote and develop the use of remote sensing within archaeology.

Discovery Programme senior geo surveyor, Rob Shaw, said Ireland was one of the leaders in the field.

“This is much more than aerial photography,

? he said.

“The process employs new technologies which allow us to see a lot more from the air than was previously the case.

“We can now see very subtle features in the landscape which would previously not have been visible. This helps us to identify locations where we can look for new things. As a result, significant new discoveries have been made and continue to be made.

?

Discovery Programme chairman, Professor Terry Barry of Trinity College added:

“It’s very appropriate to have an aerial exhibition in an airport, because of the obvious link. Also there’s a European dimension to this, and a lot of people travel through here to all parts of Europe.

?

The exhibition will run at Terminal 1 in Dublin Airport until early January.