Key facts
- China's 15th five-year work plan will deploy AI and deep-sea robots for archaeological research.
- Technologies to be developed include remote sensing and ancient DNA analysis.
- AI will be used for virtual restoration of excavated artifacts.
China is embarking on a high-tech approach to archaeology, as outlined in its latest five-year plan. The initiative will see the deployment of artificial intelligence and deep-sea robots to explore the country's history, understand the origins of East Asian humans, and bolster China's cultural soft power. Key technologies to be developed include remote sensing, ancient DNA analysis, and AI models for virtual restoration of artifacts. The plan also mentions the use of underwater archaeology robots, aligning with broader efforts to advance maritime capabilities.