Museums Victoria uses 3D scanning to digitise some of the items in our collections. We do this to document items and also to analyse them in a non-invasive manner. Some collection items are rare, fragile or otherwise difficult to transport or access. 3D scanning allows data about these items to be collected and shared with the public and researchers without damaging the items or requiring repeated access to them, helping to preserve them for the future.

Surface scanning using visible light collects data on the shape and colour of the exterior of an item. CT scanning uses x-rays to reconstruct the external and internal shapes of items. Both are methods being used to digitise and examine our collection items.

Some of the museum's specimens that have been surface and CT scanned can be seen here.

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