Space archaeologist Sarah Parcak discusses using NASA satellites and LIDAR to unearth hidden structures like pyramids and tombs. They debunk alien theories, highlight citizen archaeology, and explore collaborations with planetary scientists on celestial bodies. The episode also touches on the role of experts, human resilience throughout history, and the democratization of high-resolution satellite imagery.
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Quick takeaways
Space archaeology utilizes satellite technology to map ancient sites and reveal buried features.
LIDAR technology offers detailed 3D modeling of landscapes to unveil hidden structures.
Global Explorer engages citizen archaeologists in identifying archaeological sites for research.
Deep dives
Space Archaeology: Mapping Ancient Sites with Satellite Assets
Space archaeology, also known as satellite archaeology, involves using space-based assets like NASA satellites, commercial drone imagery, and data from airplanes to map archaeological sites. These technologies can help locate ancient settlements, features within sites, and even buried river channels that reveal insights into ancient civilizations.
Benefits of Satellite Technology for Archaeological Research
Satellite technology provides a unique advantage in archaeology by allowing researchers to observe subtle differences on the surface of archaeological sites. By utilizing various parts of the light spectrum, such as near infrared, researchers can identify hidden features like buried structures or ancient river courses that may not be visible to the naked eye.
LIDAR Technology in Archaeological Discoveries
LIDAR, which stands for Light Detection and Ranging, is a sensor system that emits millions of pulse beams of light to create a 3D point cloud model of landscapes. By removing vegetation and highlighting terrain features, LIDAR enables archaeologists to uncover previously unknown structures and features with remarkable detail.
Space Archaeology and Global Exploration Initiatives
Initiatives like Global Explorer are harnessing the power of citizen archaeologists through crowdsourcing platforms to assist in identifying potential archaeological sites. By engaging the public in structured archaeological activities, these projects aim to make valuable contributions to archaeological research while promoting public interest and participation.
The application of archaeological methods, including satellite archaeology, can be extended beyond Earth to explore artifacts on the Moon or other celestial bodies. By using similar technologies and techniques, researchers can uncover the history of human presence in space and potentially discover evidence of past life or civilizations.
Who really built the pyramids? Neil deGrasse Tyson and Chuck Nice learn about space archaeology, LIDAR, and discovering tombs, pyramids, and new Nazca lines with space archaeologist Sarah Parcak.
Thanks to our Patrons Bo Cribbs, Anna Wheatley, Fred Gibson, David Griffith, Micheal Richards, Advynturer, Vici Bradsher, Terry Migliorino, Lingji Chen, and Audrey Lynch for supporting us this week.
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