Archaeology Term: Remote Sensing
Remote sensing is a non-intrusive survey method used in archaeology to find and study archaeological sites without excavation.
It includes a range of techniques, such as aerial reconnaissance and geophysical methods like magnetometry, radar, resistivity, and conductivity, to detect features buried beneath the surface.
Aerial reconnaissance involves capturing photographs or satellite images of a landscape, helping archaeologists identify potential sites based on surface features. These images can reveal patterns such as crop marks, soil discoloration, or ancient roadways that are not easily visible from the ground.
Geophysical techniques, such as magnetometry, measure variations in the magnetic field caused by the presence of archaeological features like walls, ditches, or pits. Magnetometry is particularly useful for detecting structures made of materials with magnetic properties, like fired clay or stone.
Radar is another remote sensing technique that uses electromagnetic waves to penetrate the ground and detect buried features. Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) can produce detailed images of subsurface structures, revealing outlines of walls, graves, and other archaeological remains without the need for digging.
Resistivity is a method that measures the electrical resistance of the soil, which can vary depending on the presence of moisture and buried features. By measuring these variations, archaeologists can locate anomalies in the ground that may indicate the presence of archaeological structures or objects.
Conductivity works similarly to resistivity but measures how well the ground conducts electricity, helping to identify areas of buried features with different conductivity properties. This method can be useful for detecting waterlogged sites, walls, or other features that affect soil conductivity.
Remote sensing techniques are valuable because they allow archaeologists to survey large areas quickly and efficiently, reducing the need for time-consuming excavation. They also provide a non-destructive way to assess sites, preserving the integrity of the landscape and its archaeological resources.
While remote sensing is effective for identifying potential sites, it cannot always provide detailed information about the nature or age of the features detected. However, when combined with other archaeological methods, remote sensing helps create a clearer picture of ancient human activity and aids in site management and preservation.
