Remote sensing plays a crucial role in underwater archaeology by enabling the detection, mapping, and analysis of submerged sites without the need for direct human intervention. It allows archaeologists to explore large and often inaccessible underwater areas efficiently. Key remote sensing technologies used in underwater archaeology include:
- Side-Scan Sonar – This system emits sound waves to create detailed images of the seafloor, helping detect shipwrecks and other submerged structures.
- Multibeam Sonar – Provides high-resolution, three-dimensional maps of underwater terrain and objects by using multiple sonar beams.
- Sub-bottom Profilers – These devices penetrate sediment layers to detect buried structures, shipwrecks, or geological formations beneath the seabed.
- Magnetometers – Detect variations in Earth’s magnetic field caused by metal artifacts or shipwrecks, aiding in the identification of historical sites.
- LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) – Airborne LiDAR, particularly bathymetric LiDAR, can map shallow-water archaeological sites by using laser pulses that penetrate water.
- AUVs and ROVs (Autonomous and Remotely Operated Vehicles) – These robotic systems, often equipped with cameras and sonar, allow for detailed site inspections and mapping in deep water.
- Satellite and Aerial Imaging – Can help identify shallow submerged structures or changes in water color that indicate the presence of underwater archaeological features.
By combining these technologies, underwater archaeologists can locate and study submerged cultural heritage sites with greater precision and minimal disturbance.