Geodetic surveying as part of archaeological research in Sudan

Jan Pacina

doi:10.14311/gi.14.1.4

Abstract

<p>Surveying is an important part of any archaeological research. In this paper we focus on the archaeological research in north Sudan (6<sup>th</sup> Nile cataract) and the surveying methods applicable under the local conditions. Surveying in the Third World countries is affected by the political situation (limited import of surveying tools), local conditions (lack of fixed points, GNSS correction signal), inaccessible basemaps and fixed point network. This article describes the methods and results obtained during the three archaeological seasons (2011-2014). The classical surveying methods were combined with KAP (Kite Aerial Photography) to obtain the desired results in form of archaeological maps, detailed orthophoto images and other analyses results.</p>

Highlights

The Czech Institute of Egyptology has conducted research on archaeological concessions in Sudan (6th Nile cataract) since 2009 (Lisá et al, 2011; Suková – Cílek, 2012; Suková – Varadzin, 2012)
Due to the absence of a fixed geodetic network and the GNSS correction signal, the survey was performed in a local coordinate system and even standard surveying procedures had to be adjusted from time to time to suit the local conditions
The surveying methods applied in the Sudanese desert are not absolutely fitting into Western standards but still offer the best possible results under these extreme conditions

Summary

Introduction

The Czech Institute of Egyptology has conducted research on archaeological concessions in Sudan (6th Nile cataract) since 2009 (Lisá et al, 2011; Suková – Cílek, 2012; Suková – Varadzin, 2012). This archaeological concession is located approximately 80 km downstream of Khartoum. It covers nearly 40 km of the west bank of the Nile and includes the whole western part of the Sabaloka Mountains and the zone is ca. The objective of this article is to present the surveying methods applied in the extreme conditions of the Sudanese desert and the results achieved

Objectives

Methods

Conclusion