Lidar

Definition

Lidar, which stands for Light Detection and Ranging, is a remote sensing technology that uses laser light to measure distances and create high-resolution maps of landscapes and features. This technology has become increasingly important in archaeology, especially for uncovering and documenting Viking settlements, as it can penetrate vegetation and provide detailed topographical data that traditional survey methods might miss.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Lidar can create three-dimensional representations of terrain and structures, making it easier to identify archaeological sites that may be obscured by vegetation.
2. The technology is particularly useful in dense forested areas where traditional excavation techniques might fail to reveal underlying archaeological features.
3. Lidar data can be combined with GIS to analyze spatial relationships and patterns within Viking settlements, providing insights into settlement organization and landscape use.
4. Using lidar can significantly reduce the time and labor required for site surveys, allowing archaeologists to focus their efforts on more targeted excavations.
5. Recent applications of lidar have led to the discovery of previously unknown Viking structures and settlement patterns, reshaping our understanding of their societal organization.

Review Questions

• How does lidar enhance the understanding of Viking settlements compared to traditional survey methods?
  • Lidar enhances the understanding of Viking settlements by providing high-resolution topographical data that can reveal features hidden under dense vegetation. Unlike traditional methods that may require extensive ground surveys, lidar allows for the mapping of entire landscapes quickly and efficiently. This capability helps archaeologists identify potential excavation sites that might otherwise go unnoticed due to natural overgrowth or other obstructions.
• Discuss the role of lidar in archaeological research related to Viking settlements and its impact on fieldwork strategies.
  • Lidar plays a crucial role in archaeological research related to Viking settlements by enabling researchers to gather detailed information about the landscape without invasive digging. This technology allows for efficient mapping of large areas, which influences fieldwork strategies by focusing resources on the most promising sites identified through lidar data. As a result, excavations can be more targeted and informed by precise topographical insights.
• Evaluate how the integration of lidar data with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) can transform our understanding of Viking Age societies.
  • Integrating lidar data with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) can transform our understanding of Viking Age societies by allowing researchers to analyze spatial relationships and patterns within settlements in ways that were previously impossible. This combination enables detailed examination of settlement layouts, trade routes, and interactions between communities. As researchers visualize this data geographically, they can make connections between environmental factors and social organization, leading to deeper insights into the dynamics of Viking societies during their era.

Related terms

Remote Sensing: The acquisition of information about an object or area from a distance, often using satellite or aerial imagery to gather data.

Geographic Information System (GIS): A system designed to capture, store, manipulate, analyze, manage, and present spatial or geographic data.

Topography: The arrangement of the natural and artificial physical features of an area, including hills, valleys, and human-made structures.