"By eliminating the gap between labs and fieldwork, we are able to facilitate immediate coordination and effective resolution," Wen Shaoqing, associate professor of the Institute for Archaeological Science at Fudan University, said. The project's first phase focuses on Xinjiang, with plans to expand across the entire Silk Road within three to five years.

Beyond research, an eight-episode reality show and a documentary in collaboration with director Fang Li will be produced to boost Xinjiang's tourism and cultural identity. This scientific expedition is not only a retrospective of history but also a vision for the future.

Zhang Wenjun contributed to this story.