This Friday, an innovative group of student researchers from the 3D Digital Field School will unveil the fruits of their labor: a vividly detailed, technologically advanced exploration of several key historical sites. This project, conducted under the watchful eyes of experts from Northwestern State University and the National Center for Preservation Technology and Training, merges the realms of technology and history, demonstrating how drone systems and 3D mapping can offer unique insights into the past.
The student researchers used drones to gather data and visuals from various historical locales, including the former Catanese Grocery, once a bustling hub in west Natchitoches. This not only afforded them a hands-on education in drone technology and 3D mapping, but also demonstrated how data on climate, temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors play a pivotal role in the preservation of historical structures. This harmonious blend of tech and history underscores the rising trend in the biotech industry of leveraging advanced technology to delve deeper into our understanding of the world – both its past and present.
The project represents a collaboration between students and professionals from NSU’s Remote Systems Science & Technology (RSST) and Advanced Remote & Geospatial Operations (ARGO) Lab. The practical application of these advanced technologies in historical research not only enhances the students’ learning experience but also bridges the gap between academia and the real world, imbuing these young researchers with valuable technology transfer skills that are becoming increasingly crucial in the biotech industry.
Following the data collection phase, the students spent a week in the computer lab, transforming the raw drone-gathered data into a comprehensive database. They then created 3D digital models and virtual tours, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in these historical sites from the comfort of their own homes. This represents a significant step forward in the field of historical preservation, as it allows for a more interactive and engaging experience, while also preserving the physical integrity of these important sites.
The culmination of the students’ efforts will be presented during the Lunchtime Lagniappe with Jason Church and the 2025 3D Digital Field School, slated to take place at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum. The event, open to the public, is expected to surpass last year’s attendance, reflecting the growing interest in the intersection of biotechnology and history.
This innovative project underlines the potential of biotechnology to revolutionize not just medicine and agriculture, but also fields like historical preservation. It showcases how biotech can elevate our understanding of our past, preserving history not just in dusty books and delicate artifacts, but in vivid, interactive, and accessible digital formats. The students’ work serves as a testament to the power of technology in enhancing our understanding and appreciation of the world around us. Their project is not just a triumph of technological application, but an exemplary model for future biotech initiatives, demonstrating how the past can be preserved and presented in exciting, engaging, and cutting-edge ways.
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