The LiDAR-equipped helicopter used by GEO1 to map Colombia’s Ciudad Perdida (Courtesy of NV5)
A publication in Salon highlighted how LiDAR is transforming archaeology by uncovering ancient cities and historical sites.
In his interview, Ron Chapple, Vice President of Global Strategic Solutions at NV5 Geospatial and former CEO of GEO1, speaks about how he and his team use RIEGL LiDAR technology for creating detailed maps of large areas, allowing researchers to visualize previously inaccessible structures and landscapes. The detailed mapping of these ancient cities underscores their significance and offers a glimpse into their past.
NV5 Geospatial, known for its expertise in geospatial data acquisition and analysis, has utilized RIEGL‘s VUX-1LR for archaeological and environmental projects. Their work includes high-resolution mapping and documentation of critical infrastructure and historical sites, such as the ancient city of Ciudad Perdida in Colombia and the La Mojana raised fields. These projects ensure that these treasures are preserved for future generations.
Left: LiDAR image of La Mojana Raised Fields in Colombia (Courtesy of NV5)
Right: LiDAR image of Ciudad Perdida (Courtesy of NV5)
However, the urgency of documenting these sites before they are lost to climate change and human activities is becoming increasingly apparent. The collapse of a 1,100-year-old pyramid in Mexico due to extreme weather serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of these historical treasures.
Furthermore, it’s important to note the valuable lessons we can learn for the future by analyzing the past. While not mentioned in the article, studies conducted by the University of Chachapoyas in Peru are particularly intriguing. Their goal is to document and analyze overgrown terraces from the Inca period. From a structural engineering perspective, these studies reveal the sophisticated designs used to protect settlements from landslides and floods. By investigating ancient knowledge, they aim to apply it to modern challenges. The University of Chachapoyas has partnered with the LBI ArchPro to utilize LiDAR for this documentation. This application demonstrates the efficiency and profitability of using LiDAR, especially in terms of protecting people. Moreover, it shows how multiple stakeholders can benefit from a single survey.
RIEGL is committed to supporting the preservation of global heritage by providing the tools necessary to document and protect these invaluable sites. As our LiDAR technology continues to rewrite history, we remain dedicated to ensuring that these discoveries are preserved for future generations and that we can learn from the past today.
Read the full article: Laser-based lidar tech is rewriting history — if climate change doesn’t erase it first | Salon.com
About RIEGL:
RIEGL is an international leading provider of cutting-edge technology in airborne, mobile, terrestrial, industrial and UAV-based laser scanning solutions for applications in surveying.
RIEGL has been producing LiDAR systems commercially for over 40 years and focuses on pulsed time-of-flight laser radar technology in multiple wavelengths.
RIEGL’s core smart-waveform technologies provide pure digital LiDAR signal processing, unique methodologies for resolving range ambiguities, multiple targets per laser shots, optimum distribution of measurements, calibrated amplitudes and reflectance estimates, as well as the seamless integration and calibration of systems.
RIEGL’s Ultimate LiDARTM 3D scanners offer a wide array of performance characteristics and serve as a platform for continuing Innovation in 3D for the LiDAR industry.
From the first inquiry, to purchase and integration of the system, as well as training and support, RIEGL maintains an outstanding history of reliability and support to their customers
Worldwide sales, training, support and services are delivered from RIEGL’s headquarters in Austria and in the USA; main offices in Japan, China, Hong Kong, Australia, Canada, UK, South America, and Germany; and a worldwide network of representatives.