Flying High! Combining Old with New Methods for Enhanced Airborne Prospection and Characterisation

Integrating UAV-based remote sensing with traditional survey methodologies

Abstract

Reference to aerial photographs and lidar imagery by trained specialists provides a well-established means of rapidly identifying and mapping archaeological monuments over large areas. In recent years emerging UAV technology has been integrated with a range of survey and imaging sensors, creating the opportunity to deploy UAV-based lidar, multispectral and thermal imaging in addition to traditional methodologies. Broadening the arsenal of techniques utilised within aerial survey methodologies may help to overcome some of the challenges commonly associated with individual techniques. This increases the chances of successfully identifying and characterising heritage assets across a range of landscapes during large-scale aerial mapping projects. This paper highlights some of the limitations faced by current aerial survey methodologies with reference to two case studies: an aerial investigation and mapping project focused on the Cheviot Hills in Northumberland, Great Britain (Holgate 2019) and an archaeological excavation undertaken as part of a large infrastructure project in the UK. It suggests ways in which these may be addressed and overcome through the incorporation of UAV-based remote sensing.