Satellite remote sensing and archaeology: a comparative study of satellite imagery of the environs of Figsbury Ring, Wiltshire

The abilities of three satellite remote sensed image products (low spatial resolution LANDSAT Thematic Mapper (TM); medium resolution SPOT Panchromatic; high resolution KVR‐1000) to detect archaeological features in the environs of the Iron Age hillfort at Figsbury Ring, Wiltshire, have been evaluated. Given prior knowledge of their locations, relatively large features together and those possessing a strong linear nature could be detected on the LANDSAT TM multispectral and SPOT Panchromatic image products. Near‐infrared TM imagery showed promise for the detection of smaller features as a result of differences in vegetation cover, but was constrained by its low spatial resolution. High resolution Russian KVR‐1000 imagery was found to be capable of detecting both upstanding and ploughed‐out archaeological features without the need for prior knowledge of ground truth. It is concluded that satellite imagery, although not a substitute for conventional aerial photography, represents a complementary source of information when prospecting for archaeological features. In a regional context, low resolution multispectral imagery can be used for the prospection for areas of high archaeological potential through the use of image processing and modelling techniques and, together with medium resolution imagery can be used to prepare base maps of regions for which up to date mapping is not available. High‐resolution imagery, together with conventional aerial photographs, can be used subsequently to detect and map archaeological features. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.