Immersive Archaeology

Abstract

For this project, our job is to create a website that allows users to upload 3D scanning data from archaeological sites and artifacts found in a particular dig site for virtual analysis of corroborating evidence from the results of fieldwork. In archeology, the post-excavation analysis phase is typically the most time-consuming aspect of the archaeology process. The proposed Immersive Archaeology System would primarily contribute to this post-excavation phase, by creating an immersive environment for archeologists to connect. In the immersive environment, archeologists can gather potentially relevant data about a site and its artifacts from a library, for archeologists to analyze and interpret. This enables more flexible archaeological practices since both field-based and lab-based archeologists can corroborate via the immersive environment. Additionally, educators can make use of this system to teach learners about dig sites and their artifacts remotely. For this semester, our goal is to build the foundation of the project by creating a static, one-user, web environment. This semester, we created a website that allows users to upload artifacts and dig sites. With the artifacts and dig sites uploaded, the user can then view them in a 2D and XR mode. Future work can include functions such as multi-user interaction and discussion.