A drone using laser technology allowed National Geographic researchers to unveil previously unknown features of the Inca site Wat’a in Cusco near Machu Picchu.
The drone exploration was part of National Geographic‘s show Lost Cities with Albert Lin. A team of archeologists and Lin, the host and technology-driven explorer, traveled to Cusco to investigate the archeological site Wat’a. The ancient city sits on a mountaintop 4,000 meters above sea level in the Andes. It can be found just north of Huarocondo, a district located southeast of Machu Picchu.
A survey of the Inca site was done using a drone carrying light detection and ranging technology, or LiDAR. Hundreds of laser lights per second are pulsated from the drone to the surface, generating data in the form of 3D mapping. Centuries-old features of the land are uncovered in the process.
Wat’a, which means “island” in Quechua, has been studied previously. It’s known that pre-Inca cultures inhabited the site and was later settled by the Incas. Previous investigations of the site revealed evidence of city structures such as plazas used for ceremonies, residences, and tombs.
The new information captured by the laser technology drone reveal Inca terraces were built on site in a similar styles as Machu Picchu. Circular designs that are associated with pre-Inca cultures were also found.
Source: Newsweek
Cover photo: Lost Cities with Albert Lin crew in the Andes/Albert Yu-Min Lin Facebook Page
Now that you're here:
We're asking you, our reader, to make a contribution in support of our digital guide in order to keep informing, updating and inspiring people to visit Peru. Why now? In our near 20-year journey as the leading English-language source on travel in Peru, we've had our fair share of ups and downs-but nothing quite like the challenges brought forth in the first quarter of 2020.
By adapting to the changing face of the tourism and travel industry (on both local and international levels), we have no doubt we will come out stronger-especially with the support of our community. Because you will travel again, and we will be ready to show you the best of Peru.
Your financial support means we can keep sharing the best of Peru through high-quality stories, videos and insights provided by our dedicated team of contributors and editors based in Peru. And of course, We are here to answer your questions and help whenever you need us.
As well, it makes possible our commitment to support local and small businesses that make your visit an unforgettable one. Your support will help the people working in these industries get back on their feet once the world allows us to make our dream of enjoying everything Peru has to offer a reality again-from its mouthwatering gastronomy, thriving Amazon and archaeological wonders such as Machu Picchu.
Together, we will find a way through this. As a member of our community, your contribution, however big or small, is valuable.
Support Traveling & Living in Peru from as little as $1 - and it only takes a minute. Thank you!
