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Concept
Aerial archaeology
Summary
Aerial archaeology is the study of archaeological remains by examining them from a higher altitude. In present day, this is usually achieved by satellite images or through the use of drones.
Aerial Archaeology involves interpretation and image analysis of photographic (and other kinds of images), in field research to understand archaeological features, sites, and landscapes. It enables exploration and examination of context and large land areas, on a scale unparalleled by other archaeological methods. The AARG (Aerial Archaeology Research Group) boasts that 'more archaeological features have been found worldwide through aerial photography than by any other means of survey'.
Aerial archaeological survey combines data collection and data analysis. The umbrella term 'Aerial images' includes traditional aerial photographs, satellite images, multispectral data (which captures image data within specific wavelength ranges across the electromagnetic spectrum) and hyperspectral data (similar to multi-spectral data, but more detailed).
A vast bank of aerial images exists, with parts freely available online or at specialist libraries. These are often vertical images taken for 'Area Survey', by aircraft or satellite (not necessarily for archaeological reasons). Each year a small number of aerial images are taken by archaeologists during prospective surveys.
Aerial Archaeology is used for a wide range of archaeological purposes: discovery of new sites; site recording; determining where to excavate; mapping individual sites; monitoring sites, etc. Aerial Images form the foundation of archaeological landscape mapping and the ability to study large areas is often the only possible using aerial resources.
Through the aid of vast data banks of satellite and other aerial imagery, archaeologists have access to resources that allow them to carry out these tasks.
In places yet to be documented (or where maps are considered confidential), satellite imagery is vital to providing base maps for excavation.
Official source
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