LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) scanning is a cutting-edge remote sensing technology that uses laser light to measure distances and generate precise, three-dimensional models of the earth's surface and other objects. This method involves emitting laser pulses and measuring the time it takes for the reflected light to return to the sensor, thereby calculating the distance to each point. LiDAR is renowned for its ability to penetrate vegetation and capture high-resolution data, making it invaluable in various fields, including archaeology, forestry, and urban planning.
Our institute utilizes LiDAR scanning to uncover and document archaeological sites with exceptional detail and accuracy. The process involves mounting ALS sensors on aircraft, drones, or terrestrial platforms to capture detailed 3D representations of the terrain. These sensors emit thousands of laser pulses per second, collecting millions of data points processed to create detailed digital elevation models (DEMs) and digital terrain models (DTMs).
Benefits of LiDAR Scanning
High Resolution and Accuracy: LiDAR provides highly accurate and detailed 3D models that detect subtle archaeological features such as ancient roads, structures, and landscape modifications.
Penetration of Vegetation: One critical advantage of LiDAR is its ability to penetrate dense vegetation, allowing archaeologists to identify and map features that are not visible in traditional aerial photographs.
One of the key advantages of LiDAR is its rapid data collection capability. It can cover large areas quickly, making it an efficient tool for surveying extensive archaeological sites and landscapes. This efficiency significantly reduces the time and resources required for such surveys.
LiDAR in Action
LiDAR scanning has not just revolutionized but transformed the field of archaeology. It has enabled the discovery and analysis of hidden sites and features that were previously inaccessible. For example, it has been instrumental in uncovering lost cities in dense jungles, mapping ancient agricultural terraces, and studying complex site layouts.
Drone-based aerial laser scanning, is an innovative remote sensing technology that leverages the capabilities of drones to perform high-resolution, three-dimensional mapping of landscapes and structures. This method uses LiDAR sensors mounted on drones to capture detailed 3D representations of the terrain, even beneath dense vegetation. Drones offer significant advantages over traditional piloted aircraft, including greater flexibility, lower costs, and the ability to conduct rapid, opportunistic data collection in optimal environmental conditions.
At the Institute, we utilize drone scanning to survey archaeological sites efficiently. Our AceCore Noa drone, equipped with a top-notch RIEGL ALS sensor, flies over target areas, capturing millions of data points per flight. These data points are then processed to generate detailed digital surface models (DSMs) and digital terrain models (DTMs). The flexibility of drone-based ALS allows us to conduct multiple flights over the same area, increasing data density and improving the resolution of the final models.
Drone scanning enables us to detect and analyze subtle archaeological features often hidden under vegetation, such as ancient cart tracks, quarries, and fortification walls. The high spatial resolution and accuracy of the data allow for precise mapping and interpretation of these features, which is crucial for our archaeological research and conservation efforts.
