Researchers from MIT and Boston's Museum of Fine Arts are collaborating to CT scan, acoustically measure, and create both physical and digital replicas of historical and prehistoric musical instruments. Using a Lumafield CT scanner, laser Doppler vibrometers, impact hammers, and 3D printing, the team captures internal and external dimensions and vibration data to faithfully reproduce instruments' sounds. Physical replicas are cast from plaster molds, while software reconstructions match form and acoustics. So far, about 30 of a target 100 instruments have been scanned, including a Paracas ceramic whistle from 600–175 BCE and a Veracruz flute from 500–900 CE. The project aims to preserve originals while making them playable and accessible for education and community engagement.
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