Nestled within the rugged landscapes of northeastern Arizona lies the breathtaking Canyon de Chelly National Monument. The vibrant sandstone cliff walls of Canyon de Chelly tell the story of ancient civilizations and enduring traditions. Managed through a partnership between the Navajo Nation and the National Park Service, Canyon de Chelly represents one of the longest continuously inhabited landscapes of North America.At the heart of this remarkable national monument is Mummy Cave, the largest Puebloan village perched 300 feet above the canyon floor. Recent efforts led by park archeologists Joshua Ramsey and Heather Morrison, in collaboration with the University of New Mexico's Department of Anthropology and the Southern Arizona Office (SOAR), are aimed at documenting and analyzing the structural integrity of the ruins. Supported by SOAR archeologist Iraida Rodriguez and geographer Jake DeGayner, sophisticated technologies such as laser scanning and survey-grade positioning were employed to meticulously document the structural integrity of the ruins. Their work involved dividing tasks, with one team member conducting laser scanning in the alcove while the other collected GPS observations and executed long-range scans from below. Additionally, simultaneous deployment of two short-range scanners enabled comprehensive coverage of the site's features. Through the analysis of shifting patterns and architectural intricacies, the team aims to inform preservation strategies, safeguarding the site's integrity for future generations.
