Geophysical Survey

Archaeological geophysics

Geophysical survey is a broad term covering the suite of detection methods used to map contrasts between the physical properties of buried archaeological remains and the surrounding soil.

Readings are collected in a systematic fashion over a site using a range of different instruments to measure the magnetic, electromagnetic and moisture contrasts associated with archaeological features. The instruments most commonly used are magnetometers, earth resistance meters and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) systems.

Surveys can now cover very large areas quickly, for example encompassing an entire Roman town. The results can rapidly transform our knowledge of such settlements leading to improved management at a landscape scale.

Understanding of a wide range of archaeological sites is significantly enhanced through geophysical investigation and examples of monuments  that can benefit include stone circles, barrows, hillforts, Roman camps and villas, industrial sites, deserted villages and historic gardens amongst others.

Geophysical techniques

Choice of the best geophysical technique to use depends on several factors including the type of site, the expected nature and burial depth of the archaeological targets and the area to be covered given the time available. Local site conditions such as vegetation, geology, soils and terrain also influence the decision.

Different geophysical techniques have unique and often complementary roles to play in the location and interpretation of archaeological sites.

They are therefore generally best employed in combination to maximise the information obtained. Advice on suitable survey specifications can be found by following the link to the guidelines document.

Geophysical survey forms one element within the wider field of remote sensing. This is concerned with providing information about the ground and sub-surface without intrusive disturbance. It includes airborne and satellite sensors, geophysical methods and other ground based techniques such as terrestrial laser scanning.

All of these techniques (now combined within the Historic England Remote Sensing Team) share a common aim; to reveal more of the hidden past that lies buried beneath our feet. This is achieved by the remote capture of visual data or imagery that can be analysed for the presence of archaeological information.