X-ray technology was developed in the 1890s and is the oldest non-invasive technology that can be used on mummies without causing damage to the body, wrappings, and coffin. X-ray images are created by passing electromagnetic radiation of high energy and very short wavelength through material that is opaque to light. In addition to allowing scientists to see a mummy’s bones and tissue, x-rays also illuminate metals and calcified materials such as jewels, talismans, and other artifacts that may be hidden inside the body or underneath the wrappings.
The x-rays below were taken at the Indian Head Naval Base in Indian Head, Maryland, in 1976 (left) and Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center in 2010 (right). Both show her lower left leg. The earlier x-rays seemed to show artifacts hidden within the wrappings of her legs, but the 2010 x-rays reveal no trace of these objects.
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