The evolution of remote sensing (RS) technology has been pivotal in archaeology, giving rise to the field of Remote Sensing Archaeology (RSA). Over the past century, RSA has made remarkable strides, integrating various RS techniques to interpret data from ancient human activities.
In a study published in Remote Sensing of Environment, researchers conducted a bibliometric analysis which reviewed and described the transformative influence of the advancements in RSA. This study explored the broad history with particular focus on recent developments of remote sensing in combination with big data. The evolution of RSA can be categorized into three stages: RS and archaeology, RS for archaeology, and finally, RSA. From the dominance of aerial RS in the pre-1980s era to the revolutionary advancements facilitated by technologies like LiDAR and SAR since the 1980s, RSA has undergone significant transformations, marking a paradigm shift towards scientific inquiry in archaeology.
Looking ahead, the convergence of RS with Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML), Big Data (BD), and other digital technologies holds the promise of further innovation in RSA. AI-driven archaeological interpretation, BD-fueled archaeological discoveries, Cloud or Cyber Infrastructure (CI)-enabled archaeological research, and Digital Twin (DT)-empowered digital transformation are some of the recent advancements shaping the future of RSA.
Besides, this study showed that the emergence of Space Archaeology (SA) as a transformative approach to archaeological prospecting represents a qualitative leap in the field. SA integrates advanced space technologies and cutting-edge digital advancements like AI, BD, CI, and DT, aiming to comprehensively understand spatial dynamics and human interactions with the environment throughout history.
The study concluded that the century-long journey of RSA has achieved significant milestones, particularly with the integration of AI and BD technologies. Prof. WANG Xinyuan, the corresponding author of this study, said that transitioning from RSA to SA requires "interdisciplinary collaboration" and "a shift towards science-oriented geospatial thinking."
This study benefited from the work of the scientists at the International Centre on Space Technologies for Natural and Cultural Heritage under the auspices of UNESCO. The centre is hosted by the Aerospace Information Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, aiming to advance our understanding of Earth's deep past through the utilization of space technology.
