New light has been shed on the site of the last mass battle on British soil - using an aeroplane and hi-tech lasers. Archaeologists from the National Trust for Scotland (NTS) are using cutting-edge laser scanning technology (LiDAR) to provide a detailed model of Culloden Moor.

270 years after the event, new archaeological data gathered from the exercise will allow experts to carry out analysis of the positions held by forces and the topographical reasons for their deployment. In addition, thanks to filtering available, LiDAR may reveal archaeological remains hitherto masked by vegetation.

Stefan Sagrott, Archaeological Data Officer for the National Trust for Scotland, foresees an improved experience for the many annual visitors to the site, claiming that “the data will help us to manage and conserve the battlefield area, and we hope to use it in innovative ways to increase the visitor experience and understanding of the battlefield as well.”

Sources:

1. National trust for Scotland:
   Culloden Battlefield given landscape laser-scanning treatment.

2. Tech Times:
   Laser Scan Provides Detailed Model of Culloden Moor Battle Site.