GPS

Definition

Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite-based navigation system that provides accurate location and time information anywhere on Earth. This technology is crucial for archaeological survey techniques and site mapping, allowing archaeologists to precisely document the locations of artifacts, features, and entire sites in real-time, enhancing their ability to analyze spatial relationships within archaeological contexts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. GPS uses a network of satellites that send signals to GPS receivers on the ground, enabling precise location tracking anywhere on Earth.
2. Archaeologists use GPS to create accurate maps of excavation sites, allowing them to record the exact position of artifacts and features.
3. The integration of GPS with GIS allows archaeologists to visualize spatial data effectively, revealing patterns and relationships between different archaeological features.
4. GPS technology has improved significantly over time, with advancements in accuracy reducing the margin of error to within a few centimeters in ideal conditions.
5. Field surveys that utilize GPS can save time and increase efficiency by quickly determining the layout of sites and prioritizing areas for further investigation.

Review Questions

• How does GPS enhance archaeological survey techniques compared to traditional methods?
  • GPS enhances archaeological survey techniques by providing precise location data that allows archaeologists to document the exact positions of artifacts and features. Traditional methods often relied on less accurate tools like compasses and tapes, which could lead to errors in mapping. With GPS, surveys can be completed more quickly and accurately, ensuring that important spatial relationships between artifacts are not overlooked during fieldwork.
• Discuss how integrating GPS with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) impacts archaeological site documentation.
  • Integrating GPS with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) greatly impacts archaeological site documentation by enabling archaeologists to create detailed maps that incorporate spatial data alongside contextual information. This integration allows for sophisticated analyses, such as visualizing patterns in artifact distribution or understanding the spatial organization of features within a site. The combination leads to more informed interpretations of the site's historical significance and facilitates sharing findings with others through digital platforms.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of using GPS technology in archaeology for future research methodologies.
  • The long-term implications of using GPS technology in archaeology are significant for future research methodologies as it sets a standard for precision and efficiency in fieldwork. As GPS technology continues to advance, archaeologists can expect even greater accuracy and reliability in their data collection efforts. This shift will likely lead to more interdisciplinary collaborations with fields such as geography and environmental science, fostering innovative research approaches. Additionally, the accessibility of GPS tools may democratize archaeological practice, allowing more individuals and communities to participate in documenting their heritage.

Related terms

Geographic Information System (GIS): A system designed to capture, store, manipulate, analyze, manage, and present spatial or geographic data, often used in conjunction with GPS for more advanced mapping.

Remote Sensing:

The process of obtaining information about objects or areas from a distance, typically using satellite or aerial imagery, often integrated with GPS data for comprehensive analysis.

Datum: A reference point or surface against which measurements are made; in archaeology, it's essential for accurately positioning artifacts and features in relation to a coordinate system.