Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang, Gansu province. [Photo/WeChat account: srdice]

For over two decades, Qiao Zhaofu has been photographing the Mogao Grottoes. As one of the first digital collection photographers at the Dunhuang Academy, he has witnessed the evolution of digital preservation.

In 2023, the academy approved a project for the high‑precision digital acquisition and permanent preservation of six grottoes, including the Maijishan Grottoes. Given the large investment and complex management, the academy strengthened internal controls and supervised key stages to ensure transparent and regulated fund use.

Qiao and his team have since developed a second‑generation shooting rig that is two‑thirds lighter and easier to operate as well as new ceiling‑shooting methods, greatly improving capture quality.

Han Xue, another team member, led the Exploring Dunhuang Immersive Digital Exhibition project. This large‑scale VR initiative involved extensive external partnerships with tech firms and design companies.

The academy closely monitored bidding, procurement, acceptance, and fund disbursement, conducting on‑site inspections and dialogues with managers to guarantee fairness and compliance. The project became a model for vitalizing Dunhuang culture.

Through digital technology and rigorous oversight, the heritage is now permanently preserved and promoted in a sustainable manner, ensuring the thousand‑year legacy continues for generations.