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Archaeological Geophysics Methodology
Overview
Sub-surface imaging by means of geophysical
survey is a powerful tool for archaeological site assessment and
mapping which historically has been under-utilized in North American
archaeology. Continuing improvements in survey equipment performance
and automation have made large area surveys with a high data sample
density possible. Advances in processing and imaging software
have made it possible to detect, display, and interpret subtle
patterns of cultural origin within the geophysical data.
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Some of the unique
advantages of geophysical survey:
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Geophysical methods
are non-intrusive, and are not destructive to site integrity
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A survey can provide
detailed evidence of occupation and activity not visible
from surface information
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Large areas mapped
quickly and inexpensively
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A subsurface map
of a site can be created before excavation is begun
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Researchers can
assess site patterning and integrity, and target specific
cultural features for excavation while avoiding others
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Geophysical data
can complement excavation data, and allow researchers
to understand excavation results within the entire site
context
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Lewis Somers wields the mighty FM36 fluxgate gradiometer
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A survey must be a
joint endeavor between the archaeologist and the surveyor.
The suitability of a site for survey, a definition of the
archaeological record, its stratigraphy and geophysical
contrast as well as survey design must all be determined
jointly. Competent cultural interpretation of the geophysical
data is clearly a multi-disciplinary activity.
David Maki using an EM38b
conductivity/susceptibility meter |
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Surveys which are both successful and
cost-effective must satisfy a number of basic requirements.
They must be implemented using appropriate and properly
configured survey equipment. The data sampling strategy
and density must be matched to the spatial resolution
and statistical requirements of the survey. Monitoring
the quality of data while in the field is mandatory, and
post survey data processing must be both appropriate and
mathematically sound.
Archaeo-Physics personnel have academic
and professional backgrounds in archaeology, electrical
engineering, electromagnetic theory and civil engineering.
We have 40 years combined experience providing professional
geophysical surveys specifically to the archaeological
community. Our staff also has many years of archaeological
field experience including all phases of cultural resource management and academic research projects.
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Geoff Jones using an RM 15 Resistance Meter
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Our principal survey tools are:
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Geoscan Research
RM 15 electrical resistance meter
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Geoscan Research
FM 256 magnetic gradiometer
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Geoplot 3.0 analysis
and interpretation software.
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PulseEKKO 1000
ground penetrating radar
As may be appropriate
we also use:
In addition to field surveys, we may also
perform laboratory analysis of soils and other materials.
This may be done before survey in order to assess feasibility
and optimize survey design. Laboratory testing may also
be useful for post-survey and post-excavation analysis.
A technical report describing our work, including
high resolution maps with detailed interpretation is presented
to the client upon completion of analysis.
Archaeo-Physics personnel
are available to assist and guide invasive explorations.
Our staff has extensive excavation experience which can
be put to use making ground truthing as economical and efficient
as possible.
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Website ©2009 Archaeo-Physics LLC. Unless otherwise
noted, materials from this website may be reproduced for nonprofit educational
purposes; please cite or link to source page. This page last updated
April 28, 2009
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