3-D Images of 2,500-Year-Old Mummy Reveal New Information

New 3-D images of a mummy that has been with the Smithsonian since the 1950s is revealing more about his status and age.

Using a CT scanner to construct 3-D images of the inside of the mummy, according to Live Science [via Fox News], researchers at the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History found he died at the mature age of 40 and was missing his brain and other major organs. In place of these organs were rolls of linen, part an embalming process that indicates he was of high status.

See the 3-D reconstruction:

A CT scanner uses X-rays to create a 3-D image of inside an object. According to Live Science, CT scanners are being used in archeology more often to reveal another layer of the historical story:

CT scanning is fast becoming an important tool in an archeologists' toolkit, since it allows them to view the innards of precious objects without disturbing them. For instance, researchers at the University of California, Irvine, used CT scans to diagnose several mummies with heart disease and blocked arteries. CT scans of mummies' skulls are also enabling artists to construct detailed recreations of 3,000-year-old faces like that of the Iceman mummy.

This mummy and others will be on display along with more 3-D images at the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History's "Eternal Life in Ancient Egypt" beginning November 17. Check out the exhibition's sneak peak.