CALLOS Project: Conservation of Athens Antiquities with Laser and Lidar Technologies Open to Science and Public

CALLOS, Conservation of Athens antiquities with Laser and LIDAR technologies Open to Science and public, is an NSFR research project (MIS-5056208) of interdisciplinary cooperation aiming to study and preserve the emblematic archaeological objects and monuments of Athens. The project focuses on two objectives: (a) the development of modern, portable, and non-invasive methods and instruments for analysis, and mapping, as well as a customized cleaning system based on advanced optical and laser technologies and (b) the broad communication of its works to researchers and public through the establishment of an Open-to-the-public Conservation Laboratory (OCL) at the premises of EACA. The research and conservation activities of CALLOS will be disseminated to the public via innovative communication actions and educational programs, as well as an open-source knowledge platform. The project’s aim is to employ portable spectroscopic analytical and mapping instruments based on innovative and non-destructive laser technologies (LIBS, LED-IF, Diffuse Reflectance and LIF-LIDAR) aiming at the elemental and molecular study of extraneous materials and their classification and mapping along Cultural Heritage surfaces. Furthermore, a transportable laser cleaning system is being developed, while the controlled and effective removal of deposits and encrustations will be monitored in real-time. CALLOS envisages increasing public awareness of the multitude of applications of lasers, which through appropriate scientific methods and devices, can analyze, map, clean and ultimately protect the monuments. In addition, it will play a key role in the research, development and implementation of new diagnostic and conservation technologies, for reliable, fast, and non-destructive analysis and standardized procedures for the study and restoration of indoor and outdoor Cultural Heritage assets.