Date of Award
1-2006
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
M.S.
Degree Program
Geology
Department
Earth and Environmental Sciences
Major Professor
Serpa, Laura
Second Advisor
Sarwar, A.K.M.
Third Advisor
Easley, Dale
Abstract
Recent work by Bob Melia of Real Time Thermal Imaging L.L.C. suggests thermal infrared (TIR) imaging can be used to identify subsurface archaeological features buried as deep as 3 meters but the basis for his work has not been tested. In November of 2002, Bob Melia and I attempted to locate unmarked graves at the Charity Hospital Cemetery using TIR imaging. Unfortunately, shortly after that survey, Bob Melia passed away without documenting his work or preparing the final report. Based on a review of previous research and modeling related to TIR imaging of subsurface features, I conclude that the high altitude that Bob Melia used for this type of study was key to his success. The larger field of view allowed recognition of longer spatial wavelength anomalies and more subtle temperature variations expected from features at greater depths than those in previous studies. Furthermore detecting features at these depths is aided by diurnal heating but is primarily made possible because annual seasonal temperature variations are significant 3-4 meters deep.
Recommended Citation
Heitger, Raymond, "Thermal Infrared Imaging for the Charity Hospital Cemetery Archaeological Survey: Implications for Further Geological Applications" (2006). University of New Orleans Theses and Dissertations. 318.
https://scholarworks.uno.edu/td/318
Rights
The University of New Orleans and its agents retain the non-exclusive license to archive and make accessible this dissertation or thesis in whole or in part in all forms of media, now or hereafter known. The author retains all other ownership rights to the copyright of the thesis or dissertation.