Using Laser-Scanning to Preserve Africa's Endangered Monuments

From Icon comes news of the Zamani Project, a fascinating research initiative in which University of Cape Town scientists render the African landscape in 3-D. Through photography, laser-scanning, and a slew of other mapping techniques we've never heard of (photogrammetry? say what?) -- they're compiling a uniquely comprehensive digital database of Africa's built environment, from Persian baths in Zanzibar to mosques in Timbuktu. It is the largest documentation endeavor of its kind.