Bringing History to Light: Source-Ray’s SR-130 Portable X-Ray System Featured on Discovery Channel

When most people think of portable X-ray systems, they immediately associate them with medical and veterinary imaging. But the truth is, these systems offer versatility far beyond clinical use. One industry where you might not expect to find them is archaeology where portable X-ray is used as a non-destructive testing (NDT) method to study artifacts and uncover hidden details without causing damage.

In a thrilling demonstration of technology meeting history, Source-Ray’s SR-130 portable X-ray system recently made waves on the Discovery Channel’s popular show Expedition Unknown. In the special episode Dive for America's Pirate Loot, host Josh Gates and his team dove into shark-infested waters off Cape Cod to investigate the only confirmed pirate shipwreck in the world.

This high-stakes mission required precision, portability, and power, exactly what the SR-130 delivers. The team used the SR-130 portable X-ray system for non-destructive testing (NDT) to examine fragile, centuries-old artifacts without damaging them. Its lightweight design and reliable performance in extreme environments showcased why Source-Ray’s X-ray products are trusted in demanding fieldwork.

The SR-130’s feature on a nationally televised show is more than just a media highlight, it’s a powerful testament to how portable X-ray imaging can be applied in archaeology. Portable X-ray systems enable non-destructive testing, allowing professionals to detect internal flaws, and in archaeology, reveal hidden structural details while preserving the integrity of ancient artifacts. This approach has become essential in modern archaeology, where conservation is just as critical as discovery.

Designed for mobility, versatility, and safety, the SR-130 delivers high-resolution imaging with minimal radiation exposure, making it ideal not only for medical diagnostics but also for use in forensics, research, and archaeological expeditions. As Source-Ray continues to push the boundaries of X-ray innovation, it’s exciting to see our technology bringing the past to life and into focus.

Whether you’re excavating a pirate ship or analyzing historic relics in a lab or the field, the SR-130 delivers the power of non-invasive insight right where you need it.