Internet Archaeology 25

Describes SASSA, which is an internet-based system designed to: train archaeologists in soil analysis; provide support and data for archaeologists engaged in analysing soils in the field or office; initiate dialogue between archaeologists, geoarchaeologists, and soil scientists.

In-depth overview of software which can be used to produce detailed and accurate 2-D and 3-D representations from digital photographic images. Notes that the cost is low compared to the current alternatives. PP-B

A review of ImageMaster Close-Range Photogrammetry Software and its use in archaeology.

This article outlines approaches for interpreting the Islamic city of Sultan Kala (Merv), c. 8th-13th centuries AD, based upon aerial photographic and satellite imagery. Hierarchies of assumptions (identification of individual wall lines; which frame spaces, rooms and courtyards; which are grouped as parts of specific buildings; which are part of urban blocks) and ontologies (information about these assumptions and the variable confidence of interpretation, from the position of lines to spatial function) provide a dynamic structure for the presentation of data, interpretation and theory.The article establishes procedures and protocols within two sample areas (selected to represent the diverse features of the urban and suburban landscapes) to:Explore the theory and methodology of documenting interpretation (and uncertainty) in the transcription of aerial photographic and satellite imageryDevelop ontological approaches to structuring interpretations and assumptions, within a hermeneutic model.Provide a textual and graphic narrative of the development of the areas.Establish an online forum (weblog) to contribute to the long-term project.Explore the use of other forms of electronic archive material, in particular, how imagery and audio files can be used to develop the discussion of landscapes and buildings.

Most unsuccessful palynological work is never published. As a consequence, pollen analysts waste time re-processing sterile sediments, and the available literature exhibits a uniformly positive record of success in pollen extraction. Here we report failures with Quaternary pollen analyses in the Iberian Peninsula; that is, case studies where it was not possible to extract palynomorphs for pollen counting. Both totally sterile and partially sterile sites are considered. Sites and perspectives for future studies are suggested. The majority of the failed studies are open-air archaeological and palaeontological sites, caves and rockshelters, but there are prominent cases of success. Peat bogs have provided positive results, but only with sequences formed under continuous sedimentation processes in marshy environments. Lakes are often successful sites, but a multi-core strategy, following the facies change along a transect from the shore to the depositional centre, is recommended for saline lacustrine deposits, salt marshes and lagoons, especially when there is evidence of temporary desiccation. Cave and rockshelter infills should be considered case-by-case, and these sites definitely require a palyno-taphonomical approach to post-depositional processes. Indurated deposits are sometimes surprising in their high pollen concentration, but one must be prepared for sterility. Coprolites have been insufficiently exploited, and offer a great potential, especially those of Pleistocene Crocuta. This article shows that venturing into sediments assumed a priori to be 'difficult', like fluvial terraces, slope deposits, speleothems, cave travertines, and palaeosols, may nevertheless be successful. A summary is proposed of the various factors causing sterility, before, during and after sedimentation.