New web tool maps fossil locations across ancient continents in seconds
Researchers at the University of Barcelona have developed a new web-based tool called the Paleocoordinates Calculator (PACA). This interface allows users to easily convert current geographic coordinates into ancient locations based on plate tectonics models.
Why it matters
It democratizes access to complex paleogeographic data, enabling students and researchers to perform high-quality tectonic reconstructions without needing advanced programming skills.
edited by Sadie Harley , reviewed by Robert Egan
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Add as preferred source The UB BIOST3 Research Group designs a public-facing web interface to discover the Earth’s ancient geography. Credit: University of Barcelona Calculating a fossil's position throughout geological history is a complex process. In paleontology and other disciplines, determining a location in the past is a challenge that requires refined computational tools to process large volumes of data. Now, the BIOST3 Research Group at the University of Barcelona has designed an open-access web interface for the general public that simplifies this process and facilitates access to high-quality paleogeographic reconstructions.
This tool, the Paleocoordinates Calculator (PACA), will help overcome the technological barrier to accessing high-quality paleogeographic reconstructions.
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