New technology could revolutionize the fossil record with drones meeting dinosaurs
The fossil record in Alberta’s Dinosaur Provincial Park could be reshaped by cutting-edge drone technology, according to a recent study. Traditionally, paleontologists have relied on a method that involves measuring the height of skeletons above a boundary between two rock layers to determine the age of fossils. This technique provides only a rough estimate of the age, as explained by Alexandre Demers-Potvin, a PhD student at McGill University’s Redpath Museum and the lead author of the study.
In an effort to refine this dating method, Demers-Potvin and his team utilized drones to capture more than 1,000 high-resolution images of a section of the park. These images were then compiled to create a detailed 3D model of the terrain. This new approach revealed that the reference boundary used to date fossils fluctuates in elevation by up to 12 meters over short distances. As a result, the estimated ages of fossils based on this boundary may not be accurate.
The use of drones in creating a 3D model of the park allows for a more precise analysis of the fossil record, offering a promising way to better understand the relative ages of different dinosaur fossils in the region. Demers-Potvin expressed pride in the study, highlighting the collaborative effort between researchers and students that contributed to its success.
Delving into a fossil-rich area known as “Bonebed 190,” researchers began the process of mapping the terrain using drones in 2021. By combining aerial images with ground markers placed using a GPS system, a detailed 3D model of the site was generated through structure-from-motion photogrammetry techniques. This method allowed researchers to divide the terrain into distinct time zones, providing a more comprehensive view of the geological history of the area.
The application of 3D modeling could serve as a reliable tool for dating fossils, correcting previous estimates and filling in the gaps in the existing timeline. Emily Bamforth, a paleontologist and curator at the Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum, emphasized the importance of understanding the fossil record with accuracy, stating that the stratigraphic context in which a fossil is found is as crucial as the fossil itself.
Demers-Potvin hopes to expand the scope of the study by applying drone technology to cover the entire Dinosaur Provincial Park. By moving away from traditional dating methods and focusing on filling the gaps in the geological timeline, researchers aim to gain a deeper insight into the biodiversity of the ancient world. This innovative approach showcases the potential of drones in revolutionizing the study of paleontology and shedding new light on the mysteries of the past.