The Marine Technology Research Unit is working to advance the field of underwater archaeology, combining our 3D imaging technology with traditional archaeological practices to uncover, document, and preserve submerged cultural heritage. We aim to make these 3D models available to the public and create immersive experiences that connect audiences with submerged history.
Digital heritage plays a crucial role in making underwater archaeology accessible to the public and preserving these findings for future generations. By creating high-resolution digital records of submerged sites, we provide a lasting archive that allows researchers, historians, and the public to explore underwater environments in unprecedented detail.
Photogrammetry is a cornerstone of our underwater archaeology efforts, enabling us to create precise 3D models of archaeological sites from photographic data. Using this technique, we capture and reconstruct intricate details of artefacts, shipwrecks, and architectural remains, preserving them digitally before natural degradation can occur. These models are invaluable for analysis, allowing archaeologists to examine features that might be difficult to observe directly underwater.
Shipwrecks offer unique snapshots of the past, providing a window into the technology, trade routes, and cultures of bygone eras. Our team utilizes advanced imaging techniques to map and document shipwrecks, creating detailed records that capture their structural and historical significance. MTRU is dedicated to the ethical and careful study of these sites, contributing to a broader understanding of maritime heritage and integrating findings into larger historical narratives.
To make underwater archaeological sites more accessible, we use immersive technologies like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). These platforms allow audiences to explore shipwrecks and submerged sites in lifelike detail, bringing underwater heritage to life in ways that traditional methods cannot. By creating virtual dive experiences, we enable the public to virtually “visit” these sites, fostering a deeper appreciation for submerged heritage.
Our work is also dedicated to preserving these cultural sites from environmental and human impacts. Digital models and virtual experiences provide a means of “preserving” sites that are at risk of natural degradation or looting, offering a sustainable way to document heritage while minimizing disturbance. By creating detailed digital records, we contribute to global efforts in heritage conservation, enabling ongoing analysis and reducing the need for invasive interventions.
Engaging the public in underwater archaeology is essential to raising awareness and fostering a sense of shared responsibility for our submerged heritage. Through partnerships with museums, educational institutions, and heritage organizations, we develop exhibits and educational materials that bring our findings to the public. Our digital models and immersive experiences allow students, educators, and history enthusiasts to explore the past in interactive ways.
The MTRU team are proud to have been involved with some exciting work in the Isle of Man, relocating and digitising the HMS Racehorse wrecksite. Read more in the blog post.