Chinese archaeologists are set for a hi-tech turn, with the latest five-year blueprint aiming to deploy AI and deep-sea robots to trace Chinese history, decipher the origins of East Asian humans and expand the country’s cultural soft power.
Scientists will develop technologies such as remote sensing, ancient DNA analysis, underwater archaeology robots and artificial intelligence (AI) models for virtual restoration of excavated artefacts, according to the 15th five-year work plan for archaeology.
They will also expand international partnerships to conduct fieldwork across Asia and launch joint research in the Austronesian-speaking regions, the Himalayan area and along the Silk Road and Maritime Silk Road.