Remote Sensing in Archaeology: Multisource and Multilevel Sensors for the Cultural Heritage Protection and Management

ABSTRACT: In contrast to technologies traditionally employed in archaeological research, remote sensing has  widened and optimized the scope and scale of action of archaeology in an unprecedented way. Orbital SAR images of  high spatial resolution and longer wavelengths have been used to detect underground historical sites, while orbital  passive sensors of very high spatial resolution have provide spatially and spectrally rich details on above-ground  archaeological landscapes. On the other hand, hyperspectral imagery achieves underground relics exploration  successfully in no ground remnants conditions by detecting and identifying weak spectral anomalies. Field  spectroscopy and geophysical prospection have as well aided in-situ non-invasive archaeological actions. SAR or  LiDAR-derived surface models associated with optical images allow investigations related to crop marks and  geoglyphs. Close range photogrammetry and terrestrial laser scanning, by means of fixed or mobile devices, not only  promote the tridimensional mapping of historical buildings, but also enable the reconstruction of interior spaces and  walls stratigraphy, with promising applications in virtual reality within the major domain of cyber-archeology. In this  context, this workshop is committed to introduce latest generation tools designed to support archaeological activities  targeted to the protection and management of cultural heritages by means of orbital, airborne, UAV-borne and  terrestrial remote sensing.