Using UAVs to Manage Archaeological Heritage

Abstract

This chapter explores the use of UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) for the use of archaeological investigations and heritage management at the historic sugar plantation of Betty’s Hope, Antigua. While the acquisition of low flying aerial imagery, such as kite photography, has been common practice within archaeological research, recent software innovations coupling photogrammetry and UAV technologies are providing new tools for exploration. Two different approaches for UAV acquisition are explored in this chapter: the first for use within archaeological excavations and the second for use at studying the landscape. Both have particular implications for heritage management, as the use of structure from motion (SfM) methodology coupled with aerial imagery can be used to produce an accurate 3D surface model of the site that is akin to site scanners and LiDAR technology. The important differences and limitations to these technologies are discussed.