Archaeology Term: LiDAR
LiDAR, or Light Detection and Ranging, is a remote sensing technology that uses laser beams to map surfaces with high precision.
It works by sending multiple light pulses towards the ground and measuring the time it takes for them to bounce back to a sensor.
The airborne version of LiDAR is often used in archaeology to collect detailed topographic data from the landscape. As the laser beams hit different surfaces, such as trees, buildings, or the ground, they reflect back to the sensor, providing information on elevation and surface features.
This data is then combined with GPS measurements to create accurate geospatial models. These models, such as digital elevation models and contour maps, can reveal details of the landscape that might not be visible to the naked eye.
LiDAR is especially useful in dense forests or other difficult terrains where traditional survey methods might struggle. By penetrating through the canopy and reaching the ground, LiDAR can uncover hidden archaeological features such as ancient structures, roads, or agricultural terraces that are otherwise obscured.
The technology allows archaeologists to map large areas quickly and with remarkable detail, providing a comprehensive understanding of the landscape. It also helps in identifying sites of interest for further exploration, saving both time and resources.
LiDAR has become a vital tool in modern archaeological research. Its ability to create accurate, high-resolution maps has significantly enhanced the study of ancient civilizations and the environmental factors that influenced them.
With the combination of laser technology and GPS, LiDAR enables the production of data that can be analyzed in 3D, offering insights into site formation processes, settlement patterns, and natural changes over time. This has led to groundbreaking discoveries, particularly in the jungles of Central America, where ancient Mayan cities were uncovered using LiDAR technology.
LiDAR is a powerful technology in archaeology, allowing for non-invasive exploration of archaeological sites. By generating precise topographical maps, it provides valuable insights into past human activity and the environment.
