3D MODELLING AND MAPPING FOR VIRTUAL EXPLORATION OF UNDERWATER ARCHAEOLOGY ASSETS

TLDR

The Mazotos shipwreck site in Cyprus lies 44 m underwater and contains diverse sea elements such as plants, fish, stones, and artefacts that are randomly positioned. The study aims to use immersive technologies to extend exploration time at the Mazotos shipwreck site for both the public and researchers, by creating realistic 3D models and enabling virtual reality visits. The authors used optical data to produce realistic 3D models and mappings of the site, facilitating immersive virtual reality visits. Users can experience an immersive virtual visit of the Mazotos shipwreck, gaining information about the wreck and its contents, thereby enhancing archaeological knowledge and cultural awareness. Abstract.

Abstract

Abstract. This paper investigates immersive technologies to increase exploration time in an underwater archaeological site, both for the public, as well as, for researchers and scholars. Focus is on the Mazotos shipwreck site in Cyprus, which is located 44 meters underwater. The aim of this work is two-fold: (a) realistic modelling and mapping of the site and (b) an immersive virtual reality visit. For 3D modelling and mapping optical data were used. The underwater exploration is composed of a variety of sea elements including: plants, fish, stones, and artefacts, which are randomly positioned. Users can experience an immersive virtual underwater visit in Mazotos shipwreck site and get some information about the shipwreck and its contents for raising their archaeological knowledge and cultural awareness.