By
César Borie (contents author)
Mariela Pino (contents author)
Frances Hayashida (contents author)
Diego Salazar (contents author)
Summary
The poster will summarize the methodological process for the detailed documentation of a vast complex of late Prehispanic agrarian elements (fields, irrigation canals) in the deserted area of Atacama (northern Chile). As opposed to the usual conditions for prospection in temperate regions, where the visibility of archaeological features is usually poor and confusing, here the extreme dryness of the landscape allowed an extraordinary preservation and visibility of fields, canals and other constructions.The approach was initially based on a combination of visual interpretation of high resolution satellite images (GeoEye 1) and fieldwork for mapping the layout and shape of most of the elements (canals, groups of fields, settlement areas). For the accurate documentation of smaller or densely built areas, an SFM-based photogrammetry approach was carried out, based on the use of a low cost UAV (Dji Phantom) and a consumer-grade compact digital camera for the acquisition of low altitude aerial images that allowed the generation of 3D models and orthoimages of some areas. Finally, ground based photogrammetry was also used to capture and represent some elements in greater detail.The main result has been the construction of a highly detailed and accurate map of a complex group of archaeological structures, which has been used since for the analysis and interpretation of the area, and also for the design of new fieldwork seasons.