Archaeo-Physics, LLC is a consulting firm specializing in subsurface imaging of archaeological sites. We perform geophysical surveys to produce high-resolution maps of archaeological features, artifacts, and other patterning.
We use a variety of geophysical survey technologies, including magnetometry, electrical resistance, ground penetrating radar, electromagnetic conductivity, magnetic susceptibility, and LiDAR data processing and analysis. Subsurface mapping can guide excavation, reducing costs and maximizing the recovery of useful data. Because geophysical survey is non-invasive, it is an important tool for research and preservation on culturally sensitive or protected sites. In either case, geophysical methods can map patterning that may not be apparent in excavation on a site-wide scale and without disturbance.
Our staff has extensive experience performing geophysical surveys of archaeological sites in all regions of the United States and many locations throughout the world. In addition to serving as consultants to professional archaeologists, Archaeo-Physics maintains a strong commitment to education. Our staff engages in instruction and survey at field schools and public archaeology projects. We strive to disseminate the results of our work through publication, and online and public presentations.
Explore this site through the links below to learn about the state of the art in archaeological geophysics, and the benefits that it can bring to research and preservation.
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Featured case study: Magnetic prospection for datable materials
Thermal features, such as hearths and burned structures, are often detectable in magnetic surveys. These features are rich sources of archaeological data. In particular, thermal features are sought as sources of datable material. Most often this is carbon for radiometric dating, but they can also provide material to be dated by other techniques, including archaeomagnetism and thermoluminescence. Magnetic surveys can map many features across a site, and these can be targeted specifically for datable materials. This allows more samples to be collected efficiently and with minimal disturbance. The spatial dimension inherent in magnetic survey results can contextualize temporal data, especially on multicomponent sites. While magnetometry is not effective on every site, where it can be applied it has the potential to broaden the range of temporal questions that may be asked, and to help answer them more cheaply and in greater detail. more >>
Archaeo-Physics is now the exclusive US distributor advanced magnetometer systems manufactured by SENSYS (Sensorik & Systemtechnologie GmbH). These are rugged and versatile multi-sensor systems capable of rapid large-area surveys.
Archaeo-Physics projects in the news:
- This is why Afton is scanning for ancient Indian burial mounds, Saint Paul Pioneer Press.
- ‘Digless’ archaeology - Mission researching its history, Santa Ynez Valley News.
- Secrets of the stone house, Minneapolis StarTribune.
- New Technologies (and Tires) Reconstruct Ancient Bison Hunts, UA News.
- The Eastep Site Revealed Kansas Preservation News.
- Ground-penetrating radar seeks artifacts, Ventura County Star
- Optical spectroscopy instrument development at two historic Native American sites in Kansas.
Whitepaper series:
- Archaeological geophysics a brief overview for archaeologists
- Integrating geophysical methods in archaeology optimizing research designs and cost-efficiency
- Survey logistics and site preparation
- Interpretation an overview of the interpretive process, locating features in the field, and effective testing of interpretations
- Archaeological site management preserve important cultural data by maintaining good conditions for geophysical survey
