Interpreting Ground Penetrating Radar For Archaeology

Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) has become one of the standard tools in the archaeologist's array of methods, but users still struggle to understand what the images tell us. In this book—illustrated with over 200 full-color photographs—Lawrence Conyers shows how results of geophysical surveys can test ideas regarding people, history, and cultures, as well as be used to prospect for buried remains. Using 20 years of data from more than 600 GPR surveys in a wide array of settings, Conyers, one of the first archaeological specialists in GPR, provides the consumer of GPR studies with basic information on how the process works. He show how the plots are generated, what subsurface factors influence specific profiles, how the archaeologist can help the surveyor collect optimal data, and how to translate the results into useable archaeological information.

Conyers succinctly and clearly lays out for archaeological practitioners the theory behind, and applications of, ground-penetrating radar as a non-invasive method of subsurface prospection. Describing the technology, the equipment, the analysis and interpretation necessary to produce usable results and full of examples from GPR projects throughout the world, this book also details advances in computer simulation, statistical modeling, virtual reality techniques, and data integration in recent years. Visit our website for sample chapters!

A concise and easy-to-read summary of all the latest and crucial aspects of ground-penetrating radar uses and data collection, analysis, and processing for archaeological mapping and exploration

Traditional archaeological excavation methods are sometimes daunting due to political or financial complications. Other times, an improperly planned dig can destroy or entirely overlook the features or artifacts being sought. In either case, Ground-Penetrating Radar, or GPR, is an increasingly applicable technology, but one that few archaeologists truly understand. That is where this book excels. It is tailored towards an archaeological community which is for the most part apprehensive about using "high tech" instruments and feel more comfortable on their hands and knees digging in the dirt. Its abundant illustrations and easy-to-understand tables help to keep this potentially daunting subject matter accessible. It also contains more complex equations and theory so that the more technically-oriented can use it as a reference tool.

There has long been a strong collaboration between geologists and archaeologists, and the sub-field of geoarchaeology is well developed as a discipline in its own right. This book now bridges the gap between those fields and the geophysical technique of ground-penetrating radar (GPR), which allows for three-dimensional analysis of the ground to visualize both geological and archaeological materials. This method has the ability to produce images of the ground that display complex packages of materials, and allows researchers to integrate sedimentary units, soils and associated archaeological features in ways not possible using standard excavation techniques. The ability of GPR to visualize all these buried units can help archaeologists place ancient people within the landscapes and environments of their time, and understand their burial and preservation phenomena in three-dimensions. Readership: Advanced students in archaeology and geoarchaeology, as well as practicing archaeologists with an interest in GPS techniques.

SEEING THE UNSEEN. GEOPHYSICS AND LANDSCAPE ARCHAEOLOGY is a collection of papers presented at the advanced XV International Summer School in ArchaeologyGeophysics for Landscape Archaeology (Grosseto, Italy, 10-18 July 2006). Bringing together the experience of some of the worlds greatest experts in the field of archaeological prospection, the

This book presents the integrated use of magnetometry and ground-penetrating radar geophysical mapping to understand the human presence within buried archaeological landscapes. Ground-penetrating radar can be used to identify buried living surfaces, geological stratigraphy and the architectural remains of sites in three-dimensions. Magnetometry can produce images denoting differences on the composition of those materials, both anthropogenic and natural, but with more limited three-dimensional resolution. The integration of the two has a unique ability to resolve and interpret these buried materials, differentiated between the human-caused and natural layers, and place all buried features within historic landscapes. The final product of geophysical integration, along with some limited subsurface testing, produces a holistic analysis of human adaptations to, and modifications of, the ancient landscape. Examples are shown from sites in Roman Croatia and Britain, Medieval Ireland, Colonial Connecticut, and an Archaic site in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. These examples from very different environments, time periods and cultural groups illustrate how the integrated geophysical methodology can interpret, on a scale approaching many hectares, the ancient landscapes within which people lived.

Archaeology has been transformed by technology that allows one to ‘see’ below the surface of the earth. This work illustrates the uses of advanced technology in archaeological investigation. It deals with hand-held instruments that probe the subsurface of the earth to unveil layering and associated sites; underwater exploration and photography of submerged sites and artifacts; and the utilization of imaging from aircraft and spacecraft to reveal the regional setting of archaeological sites and to assist in cultural resource management.