Indiana Jones: Myth, Reality And 21st Century Archaeology

Advanced archaeological science techniques currently supplement traditional pedestrian survey and excavation. In the age of sustainability, supplementation may transform into displacement, as the accuracy of high tech mapping, remote sensing and sophisticated sampling turn out to be uniquely accurate and productive methods for discovering archaeological sites. Science provides efficiency for archaeological exploration at a time when budgets are tight, access to archaeological sites is limited by geo-political concerns, and the ability to mobilize large staffs and crews is restricted by both money and logistics. By the end of the 21st century archaeological practice will change significantly, de-emphasizing large scale excavations and highlighting the effectiveness of mapping and sub-surface exploration through geophysical survey and satellite mapping. Data base management and GIS platforms offer new ways for assimilating, analyzing and interpreting huge and diverse data sets.