RPAS for documentation of Nazca aqueducts

Aqueduct systems, known as 'puquíos,' in the Nasca region of Peru provide critical insights into pre-Hispanic engineering and water management. These structures, often hidden in arid landscapes, were likely built to address water scarcity following climatic changes after 400 AD. Some remain functional today, supplying drinking water or irrigation. A study using remote sensing technology, specifically a Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS), documented five aqueducts representing diverse construction types and conditions—ranging from well-preserved systems to open trenches with circular or rectangular access holes. The RPAS captured high-resolution orthophotos and digital surface models, revealing the complexity of these structures and their potential for long-term preservation before they disappear. This method offers a non-invasive way to study and map such sites, enhancing our understanding of their historical significance.

Šedina, J., Hůlková, M., Pavelka, K., & Pavelka, jr, K. (2018). RPAS for documentation of Nazca aqueducts. European Journal of Remote Sensing, 52(sup1), 174–181. https://doi.org/10.1080/22797254.2018.1537684