On March 2, 2008, USC students Adam Benkato and Lucy Harrington participated in a laser test at the pictograph site. The visit began with an attempt to use a generator to power the laser in the field, but the laser failed to work under generator power.

Dr. M.H. Abraham unsuccessfully attempted to fix the laser. The laser then had to be taken to a neighbor’s garage in order to utilize a washing machine outlet for power, which was successful.

The team attempted to use the laser on samples brought down from the site. The laser worked briefly, partially removing some spray paint. This test was performed in front of San Luis Rey officials, and they were highly impressed with the results. Unfortunately, the laser ceased to work after this test.

Due to these technical problems, the laser needs to be serviced before field testing can commence again. Despite these problems, the results produced in the brief field test are extremely useful in determining the effectiveness of the laser. The fact that the laser was able to remove spray paint from a rock found at the site without damaging the rock surface is very promising for future tests.

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