How one man just rewrote the history of Alcatraz

CNN - Apr 11th, 2025

In 2023, technologist Pete Kelsey embarked on a groundbreaking project to preserve Alcatraz Island as rising sea levels threatened its iconic structures. Tasked with creating a detailed 3D map of the island, Kelsey and his team used advanced equipment like LiDAR, drones, and Boston Dynamic's robot dog to access previously restricted areas, including Civil War-era spaces and the notorious D-block. The project, which started in December 2023 and concluded in January 2025, unveiled significant historical insights such as the original Civil War-era sallyport and detailed the infamous 1962 escape route of Frank Morris and the Anglin brothers.

This intricate mapping effort not only aids in preserving Alcatraz by providing a baseline for future surveys to assess climate change, seismic activity, and structural deterioration but also opens up new possibilities for the arts and virtual tourism. Kelsey's data allows for potential uses in film and virtual tours, showcasing the diverse applications of this comprehensive 3D mapping. The project highlights the intersection of technology, history, and preservation, as well as the ongoing impact of climate change on historical sites, marking it as a significant achievement in both scientific and cultural domains.

Li Dar Technology Sea Level Rise National Park Service Historical Preservation Alcatraz Pete Kelsey 3 D Mapping Civil War History 1962 Alcatraz Escape Virtual Tourism

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

7.2

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides an engaging and informative account of Pete Kelsey's project to map Alcatraz Island. It effectively highlights the technological and historical significance of the endeavor, using clear language and a logical structure to maintain reader interest. The story's focus on a timely and relevant topic, such as historical preservation in the face of climate change, enhances its appeal and public interest.

However, the article could benefit from a more balanced representation of perspectives, incorporating insights from a wider range of stakeholders. This would enhance the credibility and depth of the reporting, addressing potential biases resulting from reliance on a single source. Additionally, greater transparency regarding the project's broader context and potential conflicts of interest would provide readers with a more comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing the story's narrative.

Overall, the article successfully combines elements of technology, history, and environmental awareness, offering readers a thought-provoking exploration of the challenges and opportunities faced by historical sites in the modern world. With some improvements in source diversity and transparency, the piece could further elevate its impact and engagement with the audience.

Accuracy

The story presents a largely accurate depiction of the project undertaken by Pete Kelsey to map Alcatraz. The factual claims, such as the use of 3D mapping technology and the involvement of drones and Boston Dynamics' robot dog 'Spot', are consistent with known data and sources. The timeline of the project, starting in December 2023 and concluding in January 2025, aligns with available information, indicating precise reporting. However, some claims, like the discovery of the original sallyport entrance and the imaging related to the 1962 escape, require further verification for historical accuracy. Overall, the story's claims are well-supported, but some details might benefit from additional corroboration.

Balance

The article primarily focuses on Pete Kelsey's perspective, showcasing the technological and historical significance of the project. While it provides a comprehensive view of Kelsey's achievements, it lacks alternative viewpoints, such as those from historians, conservationists, or local stakeholders. This focus may result in a slightly imbalanced representation, as it does not address potential concerns or differing opinions regarding the project's implications or the use of technology on a historically significant site.

Clarity

The article is well-structured and uses clear, accessible language to convey complex technological concepts. It effectively explains the significance of the mapping project and its potential applications, making it easy for readers to follow. However, some technical terms, such as LiDAR, could benefit from further simplification or explanation for a general audience. Overall, the narrative flows logically, maintaining reader engagement throughout.

Source quality

The story appears to rely heavily on information from Pete Kelsey and his team, which may affect the impartiality of the reporting. While Kelsey is undoubtedly a credible source regarding the technical aspects of the project, the lack of diverse sources could limit the story's depth. Including perspectives from the National Park Service, historians, or independent experts would enhance the credibility and reliability of the information presented.

Transparency

The article provides a clear description of the project's goals, methodologies, and challenges, such as securing permits and dealing with environmental concerns. However, it lacks detailed information about the potential conflicts of interest or the broader context of the project, such as funding sources or the motivations behind Kelsey's involvement. Greater transparency in these areas would offer readers a more comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing the project's execution and reporting.