neutron and X-ray imaging of the 'black boxes' for the ancient Charm project

The Ancient Charm project binds together archaeologists and neutron scientists. Their shared goal is a development of new neutron-based imaging techniques for non-destructive investigation of valuable archaeological objects, while the objects are treated with the highest precautions. One of the tasks of the Ancient Charm project was an analysis of test objects - so called 'Black Boxes' prepared by the archaeologist for the initial development phase of the new neutron-imaging techniques. Since such a development is a challenging task, we decided to use well established imaging methods first: With the help of the neutron resp. X-ray radiography and tomography, we were able to find out and define the shapes and forms of the unknown objects inside of the black boxes. Provided with these pieces of information, the new neutron imaging methods can be positioned to the spots of interest within the black boxes and make the measurements. The overview of the neutron and X-ray radiography and tomography of the black boxes is presented in this article.