Applications of ground penetrating radar in archaeological and forensic contexts

A.P. Annan, Sensors & Software, provides examples of how GPR can uncover both the ancient and unexpected from shallow ground. Ground penetrating radar (GPR) now sees widespread use for many shallow mapping applications. The basic principles are summarized by Davis & Annan (1989). The most intriguing uses always seem to involve archaeology and forensics. The search for anthropogenic subsurface features – whether historical or criminal in context – always create discussion and comment. The news media regularly announces GPR being used to locate bodies such as that of the late Jimmy Hoffa or to unearth the lost city of Atlantis. While exciting, the real successes seldom reach the public media. Those in the UK who watch the Time Team on television will have some sense of the excitement and treasure hunt aspect of using geophysics for archaeology. In this article we will present three interesting applications of GPR for archaeological/forensic type applications. There are many such instances which can be cited. The following were chosen for their specific relevance to a geophysical audience.