Remote Sensing Methods For Archaeological Research

Remote sensing is a modern technology that uses satellite, aerial, and ground data sources to analyze selected objects of interest at a distance. Computers with special software analyze the data. The analysis provides information about an object, area, or phenomenon. Data sources can include mutispectral imagery, Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imagery, digital elevation data and various geospatial databases. Remote sensing is used in many different fields such as agriculture, archaeology, atmospherics, environment research, forestry, geology, hydrology, intelligence gathering, and urban development. Data can be shared over the Internet, permitting researchers to share their data on a global basis.

Geographical Information Systems (GIS) are used to process and display various remote sensing and geospatial databases . By utilizing powerful computer algorithms, selected data sources can be analyzed to reveal details that were previously unnoticeable in a single data set. For Bible related archaeological research, databases can be constructed that link Scriptural information such as the geographical location of Biblical places with other data sources and models for analysis. The data sources can include digital elevation data, map data, multi-band satellite and aerial imagery, Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data, and various databases pertaining to archaeological sites and terrain features. An example of a GIS database containing information on archaeological sites and other related data is shown below. The map is composed of satellite imagery and digital terrain data.

GIS data on Archaeological Sites in Israel

GIS databases can use multiple geospatial data sources with a variety of classification techniques. In this way, information can be built upon. Remote sensing is a well proven science and has greatly aided archaeology and other fields.

An Example of Remote Sensing for Bible Research - Finding Elim

More on Remote Sensing for Bible Related Archaeological Research Applications

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