How can drone remote sensing be used to explore hidden archaeological sites?

2 Types of drones and sensors for archaeological exploration

The choice of drones and sensors for archaeological exploration depends on several factors, such as the size, location, and condition of the site, the research objectives, the budget, and the regulations. Generally, there are two main types of drones: fixed-wing and rotary-wing. Fixed-wing drones are more suitable for large-scale and long-duration surveys, as they can fly faster, farther, and longer than rotary-wing drones. However, they require more space and skill to launch and land, and they cannot hover or maneuver in tight spaces. Rotary-wing drones are more suitable for small-scale and short-duration surveys, as they can take off and land vertically, hover, and fly in any direction. However, they consume more battery power and have a shorter range and endurance than fixed-wing drones.

The type of sensor also depends on the research question and the site characteristics. For example, visible light cameras can capture the color and texture of the surface features, but they cannot penetrate vegetation or soil. Infrared cameras can detect heat differences and identify buried structures or water sources, but they are affected by atmospheric conditions and surface temperature. Thermal cameras can measure the temperature of the surface and reveal the presence of walls, tombs, or fireplaces, but they require a large temperature contrast between the feature and the background. Radar sensors can emit and receive radio waves that can penetrate vegetation, soil, and some materials, and produce images of the subsurface features, but they are expensive and complex to operate. Lidar sensors can emit and receive laser pulses that can measure the distance and elevation of the surface features, and create 3D models of the terrain and the structures, but they are also costly and require a clear line of sight. Hyperspectral sensors can capture the spectrum of light reflected by the surface features, and identify the composition and condition of the materials, but they require a lot of data processing and calibration.

3 Challenges and opportunities of drone remote sensing for archaeology

Drone remote sensing offers many advantages for archaeology, such as increasing the coverage, resolution, and efficiency of the surveys, reducing the cost, time, and risk of the fieldwork, enhancing the visualization and communication of the results, and supporting the preservation and management of the heritage sites. However, drone remote sensing also poses some challenges, such as complying with the legal and ethical regulations, ensuring the quality and reliability of the data, dealing with the technical and environmental issues, and integrating the drone data with other sources of information. Therefore, drone remote sensing requires careful planning, preparation, and execution, as well as collaboration and coordination among the stakeholders, such as archaeologists, drone operators, authorities, and communities.

Drone remote sensing is a fascinating and promising field that can help you explore hidden archaeological sites and uncover their secrets. By using drones and sensors, you can capture images and data that reveal the shape, size, and features of ancient structures and landscapes that are otherwise invisible or inaccessible. However, you also need to consider the factors that affect the choice of drones and sensors, as well as the challenges and opportunities that drone remote sensing presents for archaeology and heritage management. If you are interested in learning more about drone remote sensing and how to apply it to your archaeological projects, you can check out some online courses, books, and articles that provide more information and guidance on this topic.

4 Here’s what else to consider

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