SUMMARY
Developed from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory color science, the Dstretch app uses a decorrelation stretch technique to untangle statistically linked colors in images. This method, originally for mapping Martian surfaces and lava flows, goes beyond standard contrast adjustments to reveal details previously invisible. Photographer Jon Harman adapted this technique into a plugin and smartphone app, which has since been used to uncover faded rock art, ancient paintings at Angkor Wat, and figures in Egyptian tombs without needing new photographs.
TAKEAWAYS
Dstretch app uses NASA's decorrelation stretch technique for image enhancement.
The technique statistically untangles colors to reveal hidden details.
It aids in recovering faded ancient art and archaeological discoveries.
The app is an affordable adaptation of advanced scientific color processing.