TechModern technology uncovers possible Noah's Ark relic on Turkish-Iranian border

Modern technology uncovers possible Noah's Ark relic on Turkish-Iranian border

Noah's Ark found?
Noah's Ark found?
Images source: © Press materials | Huseyin Yildiz

8:31 AM EST, December 25, 2023

The distinctive rock formation was first observed in 1959 by Ilhan Durupinar, a captain of the Turkish air force. Since then, global scientists have been scrutinizing the formation, some believing it could be remnants of the biblical Noah's Ark.

Has the Biblical Noah's Ark Been Found?

Experts from the American-Turkish project, Noah's Ark Scans, insist that the object's dimensions match the biblical description of the Ark. Using advanced 3D scanning techniques, they argue that the rock formation is about 492 feet long, consistent with Noah's Ark in the Bible.

Nevertheless, numerous geologists dispute these claims, noting that the object on Mount Tendürek lacks wooden fragments that supposedly made up Noah's Ark. They maintain that nature can produce many unique and irregular structures. Additionally, the location on the Turkish-Iranian border, specifically a shield volcano, contradicts the biblical narrative due to potential risks it could pose to the ark's crew.

What Research Methods Were Used in the Search for Noah's Ark?

Among the various technologies used, 3D scanning was central to the formation's study. This method involves analyzing the object to gather data about its shape and surface features. The collected information assists in creating digital three-dimensional models.

"Having high-quality digital models is essential for enhancing our analytical abilities and gathering information regarding our cultural heritage. Two-dimensional mediums (like photos or videos) are currently standard, but in the near future, three-dimensional models will likely be the norm.

Access to 3D digital models unlocks a broad range of applications, which can significantly enhance our capabilities for analyzing, recognizing, and comparing works of art with other elements of cultural heritage," wrote Italian researchers Paolo Cignoni and Roberto Scopingo about this method in 2008.

The experts from Noah's Ark Scans also employed electroporation tomography and georadar. The first technique, also known as electroporation imaging, provides a broad depth range. This examination takes place along a given object's profile.

"Prior to starting measurements, necessary data related to the layout's geometry, its length, and acquisition parameters must be input into the device. It also allows for electrode checks to ensure proper electrical contact with the substrate (ensuring grounding). Quality control and error analysis occur in real time during the measurement," - as described by the GeoSpectrum service regarding this technique.

Conversely, georadar is a high-resolution, mobile geophysical method based on emitting electromagnetic waves. It examines frequencies ranging from short to ultra-short radio waves. The gathered data are processed by specialized software, producing an image resembling a cross-section of the object under study.

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