Proof of Concept for Holographic Display
The Milwaukee Public Museum is planning a major new exhibition centered on ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece and Rome, utilizing not only current information and interpretations, but new technologies beyond traditional presentation methods. For one element of this initiative, the Museum was awarded funding from the National Endowment for Humanities (NEH) to develop a proof-of-concept for a 3-D high-definition, full color true holographic or holographic-like exhibit of a virtual mummy unwrapping. Egyptian mummies have been a long-term research interest of the Project Director. The Museum worked alongside key experts with experience in medical imaging, mummy computed tomography (CT) analysis, 3-D rendering, animation and laser projection techniques to research and evaluate breakthrough technologies in visualizations for computed tomography data. While CT scanning of mummies is not new, our use of the latest technologies will provide greater clarity, enabling the use of innovative presentation systems. This exhibit will allow visitors not only to learn about mummification but to see, in detail, the various inner elements of the mummy, better understanding Egyptian beliefs and practices.
This approach to the presentation of mummy research can be a test for exciting visitors, especially youth, about the ancient history of the Near Eastern and Classical civilizations - basic to appreciating the roots of modern Western society and to understanding the political, religious and social tensions prevalent today. The study of that history is less evident in formal education than previously. Informal learning in museums, using innovative technologies, can appeal to those at ease digesting information through digital media, making ancient history accessible and exciting.
Download a PDF of our Hologrant White Paper for more information.