Laser Scanning Stonehenge: The Bigger Picture

The Stones

Scan of Stones 29, 30, 1 and 2 using a Riegl Z360 laser scanner provided by Dr Graham Hunter

A rendered 3D laser scan of stones 2, 1, 30, and 29. From this model, detailed measurements can be made on any aspect, from cross-sections to contours, all accurate to within +/- 6mm.

On the same day as the 3D scanning of the carvings, we also took a smaller number of scans using a different type of scanner. Known as a "time of flight" scanner, in this case a Riegl Z360 provided by Dr Graham Hunter, it enables one to capture much larger areas. Typically, the resolution and accuracy of such a scanner is +/- 6mm. There is more about the technique in laser scanning.

A render from within the stone circle, looking towards stones 51 and 52 in the foreground

This image (Stones 51, 52 and 61 in the foreround, stones 2-5 in the background) shows the vast amount of information that a laser scan can capture. The applications of a complete 3D model of Stonehenge at this level of accuracy or even that of a triangulating laser scanner are vast. It would enable us to achieve a greater understanding of the monument as a whole.

A 360 degree scan was made from within the stone circle. An animation of the model may be viewed in animations. Many more scans need to be taken to enable us to capture every facet of the monument, and create a complete model of Stonehenge.