Aerial Photography

Definition

Aerial photography is the process of taking photographs from an elevated position, often using drones or aircraft, to capture images of the Earth's surface. This technique is vital in archaeology as it helps identify and document sites, features, and structures that may not be visible from the ground level. Aerial photography provides valuable insights into the layout of archaeological sites and the surrounding landscape, enhancing our understanding of human activity in various historical contexts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Aerial photography has been used in archaeology since the early 20th century, significantly improving site discovery and documentation.
2. Photographs taken from above can reveal features like buried structures or ancient roadways that are not visible from ground level.
3. The use of drones for aerial photography has revolutionized archaeological surveys by providing high-resolution images at a lower cost and with greater accessibility.
4. Aerial imagery can be processed and analyzed using software tools to identify patterns in land use and changes over time.
5. This technique is especially useful for large-scale sites like the Terracotta Army and the Nazca Lines, where detailed surface analysis is crucial for understanding their historical significance.

Review Questions

• How does aerial photography enhance the discovery and documentation of archaeological sites?
  • Aerial photography enhances the discovery and documentation of archaeological sites by allowing archaeologists to see a broader perspective of the landscape. It reveals features that are often obscured from ground view, such as ancient roads, structures, and other cultural landscapes. This method can lead to the identification of new sites or provide critical context for existing ones, thus enriching archaeological research.
• In what ways did aerial photography contribute to the excavation process of the Terracotta Army?
  • Aerial photography played a crucial role in planning the excavation process of the Terracotta Army by providing detailed visual maps of the site. This technique allowed archaeologists to analyze the layout of the burial complex from above, identifying key areas for excavation. The ability to see structures and features in their entirety helped streamline excavation efforts and improve the understanding of how these artifacts were arranged in relation to one another.
• Evaluate the impact of aerial photography on our understanding of Nazca culture and its environmental context.
  • Aerial photography significantly impacts our understanding of Nazca culture and its environmental context by revealing geoglyphs that illustrate their complex relationship with the landscape. These images have allowed researchers to analyze patterns in land use, agricultural practices, and ceremonial activities. By examining these features from above, scholars can better assess how Nazca people interacted with their environment, shedding light on their cultural practices and societal structure.

Related terms

Remote Sensing: The acquisition of information about an object or phenomenon without making physical contact, often using satellite or aerial imagery.

GIS (Geographic Information System): A system that captures, stores, analyzes, and manages spatial or geographic data, often integrating aerial photography for mapping and analysis.

LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging): A remote sensing technology that uses laser light to measure distances and create high-resolution maps of the Earth's surface, complementing aerial photography.