20 – Proximal sensing 1

Introduction

• Focus of the lesson: Proximal sensing in archaeology.

• Previous lesson highlighted aerial images in archaeology, including aerophotogrammetry and other optical techniques.

• Today's focus shifts to digital imaging techniques using various platforms: drones, satellites, etc.

Proximal Sensing Techniques

• Definition: Proximal sensing involves acquiring and interpreting images close to ground level.

• Platforms for acquisition:

  • Drones

  • Satellites

  • Airborne platforms

• Importance in archaeological studies: bridging humanistic and technical/scientific approaches.

Use of Drones in Archaeology

• Drones as a pivotal tool in the field:

  • Capable of providing high-quality images with various sensor types:

    • Conventional cameras

    • Chromatic cameras

    • Thermal imaging

    • Multispectral imaging

• The need for technical knowledge in setting up drones and understanding their capabilities.

• Processing software for data analysis:

  • Example: Metashape for photogrammetric elaboration.

Multispectral Imaging

• Distinction between proximal and remote sensing.

• Importance of understanding spectral images for archaeological analysis.

• Example: Analyzing images of prominent archaeological sites for interpretation difficulties.

Comparison of Remote and Proximal Sensing

• Remote sensing:

  • Generally involves satellite imagery for broad geographical analysis (e.g., Google Earth).

• Proximal sensing:

  • Focused on closer acquisition, often more detailed and contextualized insights.

Aerial Imaging Evolution

• Historical context:

  • Military applications during WWII for aerial surveys led to modern techniques.

• Comparison of spatial resolution:

  • Satellite imagery can reveal large areas but is limited by resolution.

  • Example: Satellite images with 1-meter resolution may miss smaller structural details.

Requirements for Effective Imaging

• Resolution and scale of observation are crucial in determining the effectiveness of imaging methods.

• Spatial resolution defined: The smallest object that can be distinguished (e.g., 1-meter pixel resolution).

• Examples of imagery utility:

  • Locating sites using satellite images is beneficial.

  • However, detailed analysis often requires closer observation.

Platforms Beyond Drones

• Other platforms for imaging:

  • Airships with mounted cameras.

  • Historical examples of balloon-based imaging for archaeological purposes.

• Importance of maintaining geometric accuracy through appropriate techniques.

UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) Essentials

• Definition and classifications of drones (UAV):

  • Different categories based on purpose: tactical, strategic, special purposes.

• UAV performance differences: range, altitude capacity, and payload weights.

• Current uses: not limited to military—now widely adopted in archaeology for data collection.

Technical Aspects of Drone Usage

• Necessary components for operation:

  • Remote control systems

  • Ground stations for navigation and control

  • Setup of GPS waypoints for precise flight paths

• Importance of regulatory compliance (licensing for UAV operation).

Benefits of Drone Technology in Archaeology

• Cost-effectiveness: Drones provide affordable options compared to traditional aerial surveys.

• High-resolution imaging capabilities allow for precise data collection.

• Speed in acquiring images can lead to rapid production of comprehensive surveys over large areas.

• Drones can access regions difficult to survey traditionally (e.g., due to natural barriers or security concerns).

Conclusion

• Emphasis on the potential for drone technology in advancing archaeological studies through proximal sensing techniques.

• Upcoming lessons will further explore specific case studies in the implementation of these technologies in archaeological contexts.

Acknowledgment

• Appreciation for attention and engagement in learning about proximal sensing in archaeology.