An ancient civilization of millions once flourished in the Amazon

The discovery of a vast, ancient civilization in the Amazon using airborne laser scanning technology is a significant find for archaeologists and engineers alike. The use of laser scanning, also known as lidar, allows researchers to create high-resolution 3D models of the terrain, revealing subtle changes in elevation and features that may not be visible to the naked eye. This technology has revolutionized the field of archaeology, enabling researchers to map and analyze large areas quickly and accurately.

The scale of the Aquiry civilization is remarkable, covering an area of roughly 183,000 square kilometers and supporting a population of millions. This finding challenges previous assumptions about the pre-Columbian era in the Amazon, suggesting that the region was home to complex, densely populated societies. From an engineering perspective, the construction of extensive road networks, canals, and other infrastructure required to support such a large population is a testament to the ingenuity and technical skills of the Aquiry people.

As researchers continue to analyze the data from this discovery, it will be interesting to watch how the findings inform our understanding of the history of urban planning, transportation systems, and environmental management. The lidar technology used in this study has the potential to be applied to other archaeological sites, revealing new insights into the lives of ancient civilizations. Next, we can expect to see more detailed studies of the Aquiry civilization's engineering achievements, such as their water management systems and agricultural practices, which allowed them to thrive in the Amazonian environment for centuries.

Originally reported by phys.org. EngineeringNews adds analysis for science & discovery readers.