"New Developments in Geophysical Prospecting and Archaeological Research: An Example from the Navan Complex, County Armagh, Northern Ireland" (Larson, senior author, with E. Ambos). Interface Archaeology and Technology, Bulletin, Society for American Archaeology, 15(1): 10-16, 1997.

Abstract In this article we discuss recent advancements in the application of geophysical prospecting techniques to archaeological field research. We specifically discuss the results of cesium magnetometer, ground penetrating radar, and aerial photographic enhancement studies of the Navan Archaeological Complex, Co. Armagh, Northern Ireland (Figure 1). The use of new geophysical instruments and newly developed computer software programs will, in the near future, revolutionize the way archaeologists structure their survey and excavation work. We argue that the application of this equipment, however, must go beyond simply "new" or "neat" techniques and better "descriptions" for archaeologists. The ultimate contribution of these advanced technologies will be in our ability to significantly contribute to the development of cultural evolutionary theory. Our objective here is to describe the research context that we have developed for geophysical exploration and how it can be applied to the study of culture change in archaeology.

I was invited to contribute this article by the editor of the Society for American Archaeology Bulletin. This article focuses on the innovative methods of field research that Dr. Ambos and I have developed through the use of a cesium vapor magnetometer and aerial photographic enhancement techniques. This forum provided us with an opportunity to not only discuss our innovative program in archaeology at CSULB but it also allowed us the chance to argue for the need to link theory with field work applications. This article also integrates the new theoretical approach that I advocate above. We present the significant results of cesium vapor magnetometer research and aerial photographic techniques that I and Dr. Ambos have developed in recent years for Bronze and Iron Age archaeology in Northern Ireland. To my knowledge only one other group is using this technology to study the past. Furthermore, no other group has coupled ground penetrating radar, magnetometer, aerial photographic enhancement methods with evolutionary theory in the manner we have.

In this highly visible article we have reflected a very strong commitment to education at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. We have tried to use our research as a model for archaeo-geophysic fieldwork for students and instructors. Several of our graduate students are using the results of this research in their thesis projects. Thus, our commitment to education is strong and we have tried to use this work to stimulate others to undertake similar efforts in archaeology and geophysics. We suggest in this article that all graduate students be trained or at least become familiar with the new technology that we believe will significantly change archaeology in the future. Indeed, CSULB is a leader in this effort.

As a note, my work with seven students this past summer in Northern Ireland has resulted in images far more superior to those that the editor of the Bulletin said would revolutionize archaeology. We are in the right place at the right time with this technology.