Identification of a Deep-water B-29 WWII Aircraft via ROV Telepresence Survey

Leveraging Underwater Cultural Heritage (UCH) Potential for Smart and Sustainable Development in Mediterranean Islands

“…This can nowadays be supported by state-of-the-art developments in underwater technology , which are capable of conducting UCH survey, identification, navigation, excavation, meticulously documentation, restoration and conservation [ 13 ]; while hull-mounted multi-beam sonar can provide high-resolution seafloor maps down to 90 m, thus enabling survey of UCH sunken in deeper waters. Moreover, high-quality UCH mapping and extensive photographical documentation is supported by various options and systems available, such as 3D LiDAR underwater laser systems, remotely operated vehicles (ROV) [ 39 ], remotely controlled underwater robots, high-resolution acoustic sensors, like the synthetic aperture sonar (SAS) technology [ 40 ]. Underwater technology developments can be of substantial help for UCH tracking, surveying, documenting and monitoring, while they can also steer content creation for visualization and marketing purposes, bringing UCH much closer to interested audience for recreational purposes.…”

Sustainable Management of Underwater Cultural Heritage: The Route from Discovery to Engagement—Open Issues in the Mediterranean

“…However, the Mediterranean region has not been a priority in these efforts, since archaeologists from this region place more emphasis on ancient sites as opposed to wrecks from this era. The main reason may be that they are not considered as important to investigate as other unknown UCH sites from other eras, since WW I and II wrecks and their associated events may already have considerable amounts of historical documentation [63]; or they are relatively recent, particularly compared to other shipwrecks found in the Mediterranean. Documentation and monitoring of the condition of these highly vulnerable UCH sites are critical for their conservation assessments, while preservation plans need to be devised so that they will not become lost forever.…”

“…Their programs provide interpretation, protection, and preservation of these WW I and II UCH sites. The work often involves multi-stakeholders' driven research to highlight the diversity of research interests and priorities involved; and uses in many cases, telepresence technology as well as a live internet feed for public participation [63]. All management plans have a common perception as to the role of local people as the most important site managers, while getting support by those who have vested interests [66].…”