Point clouds (LAZ): Towards a spatial data repository for archaeological research in the Romanian Mostiștea Basin and Danube Valley

Spatial data are crucial in archaeological research, where orthophotos, digital elevation models, and 3D models are widely used for mapping, documenting, and monitoring archaeological sites. The introduction of affordable and compact unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has significantly advanced the use of UAV-based photogrammetry in the past 20 years. Recently, compact airborne systems have also enabled the capture of thermal, multispectral, and aerial laser scanning data. This study presents the data acquired with different platforms and sensors at Chalcolithic archaeological sites in Romania's Mostiștea Basin and Danube Valley. Since laser scanning and photogrammetry generate large data volumes, data storage and dissemination must also be carefully considered. Based on a thorough study of system performance, data acquisition and processing methods, and data outputs, a workflow for the systematic mapping and documentation of sites has been proposed. Given the experience obtained in the last 5 summer campaigns (2018-2023), 19 sites have been accurately mapped, of which 5 sites are mapped using airborne laser scanning. 18 sites are documented using multispectral photogrammetry, and for 17 sites, interactive image-based 3D models are acquired using true-color photogrammetry. All data are stored on a publicly accessible website for visualization, as well as on an open-data platform for data exchange. For the multispectral data, a raster tile service has been implemented, allowing the use of the data in a GIS environment.