Imaging Underwater for Archaeology

Abstract

In this paper we examine underwater imaging for archaeology and especially the use of multiple acoustic and optical sensors at varying degrees of resolution for reconnaissance and mapping sites on the seafloor. Specifically, we look at the role of side-scan sonar for locating suitable sites of interest, which may then be mapped quantitatively with bathymetric sonars. We also discuss the role of conventional digital and video cameras in providing high resolution redundant imagery, and how, after compensating for lighting and other artifacts, such imagery may be assembled into a photomosaic of a large site.