Herculano’s papyri: an ancient mystery that artificial intelligence and Elon Musk seek to solve | News from Mexico

Herculano’s papyri, buried by the eruption of Vesubio in 79 AD, have been one of the greater archaeological enigmas. Considered a “first -important cultural treasure” by the Higher Council for Scientific Research (CSIC).

These carbonized rolls have resisted deciphering attempts for decades. However, Thanks to technological advancesespecially in artificial intelligence (AI) and computerized tomography, we are closer than ever to reveal their secrets.

According to National Geographic, this project has captured the attention of Elon Musk recently, who through its foundation has donated 3 million dollars For the research and conservation of these papyri. But why are these documents so important? What role does technology play in its deciphering? And above all, What impact could Musk participate in this project?

What are Herculano’s papyri?

Herculano’s papyri are a Collection of more than 1,800 robonized scrollsdiscovered in the Villa de los Papyros, a luxurious Roman residence buried by the eruption of Vesubio. These documents, written in Greek and LatinThey contain philosophical, literary and scientific texts of antiquity.

Despite its incalculable value, only one 5% of its content. This is due to your extremely fragile state: Any attempt to unwind them could destroy them completely.

The role of technology in the deciphering

1. Artificial intelligence and computerized tomography

AI and computerized tomography have revolutionized the way researchers address this challenge. These technologies allow:

• Identify ink remains without jeopardizing the content of papyri.
• Create 3D maps of papyri to analyze their internal structure.
• Automize the process of interpretation of texts, accelerating the deciphering.

2. Vesuvius Challenge

This project, launched in 2023, seeks combine the effort of researchers, students and technology experts To decipher the papyri. In February 2024, three students, including a SpaceX fellow, achieved a milestone when deciphering A text by the epicurefo philosopher of gadara philode.

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Elon Musk and his contribution to the project

Elon Musk, known for his leadership in companies such as Spacex and Tesla, has demonstrated a particular interest in the culture of ancient Rome. Its donation of 3 million dollars not only supports the conservation of archaeological heritagebut also promotes the use of advanced technologies in research.

Why is your participation important?

• Financing: Economic resources are crucial to acquire avant -garde technology, such as particle accelerators, which will allow to scan the papyrus with greater precision.
• Experience in AI: Musk is a benchmark in the development of artificial intelligence, which could accelerate the deciphering process.
• Media Impact: His participation attracts global attention, which could generate more international support and collaborations.

The challenges that remain to be overcome

Despite the advances, the way to decipher Herculano’s papyri is not exempt from challenges:

• Fragility of the rolls: Any incorrect manipulation could irreversibly damage them.
• Ink complexity: The ink used in papyri is difficult to distinguish from carbonized material.
• Information volume: With only 5% deciphered, there is 95% to explore, which requires time and resources.

The future of research

The combination of Advanced technology, adequate financing and international collaboration It could lead to unprecedented discoveries. Among the potential findings are included:

• Lost texts of philosophers such as Plato or Aristotle.
• Information about everyday life in ancient Rome.
• New knowledge about epicurean philosophy and other currents of thought.

Herculano papyri represent a Single window to the pastand its deciphering could transform our understanding of antiquity. With the support of figures such as Elon Musk and the use of technologies such as artificial intelligence, we are closer than ever to solve this millenary mystery.

This project is not only a scientific achievement, but also a reminder of how technology can help us preserve and understand our cultural heritage.

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