Prospection and Monitoring of the Archaeological Heritage of Nasca, Peru, with ENVISAT ASAR

A study using synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data from the ENVISAT ASAR satellite successfully identified and monitored anthropogenic features, including the Nasca Lines and ancient aqueduct systems (puquios), in the arid desert region of southern Peru. By analyzing backscattering coefficients (σ0) from 2003 to 2007, researchers detected subtle changes in water levels and vegetation, providing insights into the conservation status of the Ceremonial Centre of Cahuachi and surrounding archaeological mounds. The findings demonstrate the potential of SAR data for routine archaeological prospection and condition monitoring in arid environments, offering a non-invasive method to study and preserve UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Nasca.

Tapete, D., Cigna, F., Masini, N., & Lasaponara, R. (2013). Prospection and Monitoring of the Archaeological Heritage of Nasca, Peru, with ENVISAT ASAR. Archaeological Prospection, 20(2), 133–147. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/arp.1449