Ancient civilisation unearthed beneath world’s largest desert using AI
One of the most exciting mysteries of human history is the discovery of lost civilisations. Recently, an international team of researchers used artificial intelligence (AI) to uncover traces of a roughly 5,000-year-old ancient civilisation hidden beneath the world’s largest desert, the Rub’ al Khali—unlocking new dimensions in our understanding of humanity’s past.
The world’s largest desert
The discovery was made in the Rub’ al Khali (parts of Saudi Arabia, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen), the world’s largest sand desert, which spans approximately 750,000 square kilometres across the Arabian Peninsula. Researchers employed AI to analyze satellite imagery and geophysical data, allowing them to identify structures and remnants of settlements previously undetectable using traditional archaeological methods. The AI was able to distinguish between natural formations and human-made structures, revealing ancient settlements buried beneath the desert sands.
According to a study published in the journal Geosciences, the significance of the ancient civilisation lies in its potential to provide new insights into early societal development and the formation of civilisations. Researchers believe that the layout of the settlements and architectural features suggest the presence of an advanced social organisation and economic system capable of adapting to the harsh desert environment.
AI in archaeology
The use of artificial intelligence in archaeology marks a revolutionary advancement, enabling discoveries with a level of precision and speed previously unimaginable. This technology opens new frontiers for studying the past and is expected to lead to similar groundbreaking findings in various parts of the world.
The discovery could also enhance our understanding of how ancient peoples lived and thrived under extreme conditions, and what innovative solutions they developed for survival. This knowledge is not only valuable from a historical perspective but may also offer inspiration for addressing contemporary and future challenges.
AI-driven archaeological research is ushering in a new era in the exploration of the human past, and the discovery of a 5,000-year-old advanced civilisation beneath the world’s largest desert stands as a remarkable example of how modern technology and ancient history can converge to illuminate the roots of humanity.
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