Scientists peered inside mummies using CT scans — Science Alert
An international team of researchers used modern imaging techniques to study ancient Egyptian mummies, allowing them to look inside the artifacts without opening them.
This was reported by Science Alert.
The use of computed tomography (CT) provided accurate three-dimensional images of the internal structure of the remains while preserving the integrity of the linen wrappings.
Previously, the study of ancient bodies often led to irreversible damage to the material and the loss of valuable historical information.
Modern technologies have transformed the approach to archaeology: scientists can now analyze the condition of bones, tissues, and hidden objects without physically touching the artifacts themselves.
The main research site is the Medical Imaging Center at Semmelweis University, whose specialists are working with the collection of the Museum of Medical History in Budapest.
Radiologists use state-of-the-art CT scanners with photon-counting detectors to identify anomalies and study ancient embalming techniques.
“The main goal is to obtain the most accurate picture possible of the internal structure of the remains, any possible anomalies, and the preservation methods used,” explained radiologist Ibolika Dudás.
Such scans provide a solid foundation for new scientific conclusions that were previously inaccessible due to technical limitations.
As part of the project, six mummies underwent radiocarbon analysis, which helped determine the age of the finds.
The oldest sample dates back to the period between 401 and 259 BCE, corresponding to the late period of Ancient Egyptian history, although the tradition of mummification itself lasted for millennia.
CT technology has already proven its effectiveness in diagnosing diseases that people suffered from thousands of years ago.
In particular, signs of anemia, arthritis, and osteoporosis were found in the examined remains, and in some cases, even traces of cancerous growths were detected.
Scientists have presented a new hypothesis regarding the construction of the Pyramid of Cheops
Recently, at the Grand Egyptian Museum, staff began assembling an ancient wooden boat that belonged to Pharaoh Cheops in front of the public.
As a reminder, in Egypt near the city of Luxor, a joint Egyptian-British mission identified the ancient tomb of King Thutmose II. This was the first discovery of a pharaoh’s tomb in over 100 years.
Last November, archaeologists made a sensational discovery in the necropolis of the ancient Egyptian city of Asyut. In the tomb of the powerful official Jefhehapi I, a secret chamber was discovered where his daughter, the priestess Idi, was buried.
We previously reported that during excavations in Kerman Province in southeastern Iran, archaeologists discovered a case for dark red lipstick dating back to the Bronze Age.
