What advantage do satellite images provide to archaeologists?

Satellite images are invaluable to archaeologists primarily because they can pick up distinctive soil signatures. This capability allows researchers to identify subtle variations in soil composition and moisture that may indicate the presence of buried archaeological features, such as ancient structures or settlement patterns. The analysis of these soil signatures can lead to the discovery of sites that might not be visible from the ground.

Although other techniques and technologies are essential in archaeology, satellite imagery specifically excels at providing a macroscopic view of large landscapes, making it easier to locate potential archaeological sites based on these soil characteristics. This approach helps in planning field studies and guiding excavations more effectively than relying solely on ground-level observations.

While identifying human remains and providing a scale for excavation sites are important in their own right, they do not capture the unique advantage offered by satellite imagery in detecting and analyzing soil signatures. Furthermore, while satellite images enhance the efficiency of archaeological research, they do not replace the necessity of fieldwork, which is crucial for verifying findings and obtaining artifacts.