NAS 3 - ROV

NAS Part III Remotely Operated Vehicles for Archaeology
Recording module

Aims:
This is a one day course will examine the history, development, and methodology used to survey an underwater archaeological site with a remotely operated vehicle. Specific focus will be given to the evolution of ROV systems, individual components, the array of acoustic sensors and the positioning systems required to use an ROV in the field. The course will combine a morning theory session with an afternoon trip on the NMC vessel Northwestern to observe an ROV in operation. The course is aimed at divers, individuals undertaking the NAS Training program, as well as professional archaeologists wanting to expand their knowledge of archaeological survey techniques.

Course outline:
• Rov History and Evolution
• Rov Design and function
• Rov Components
• Navigation and Situational awareness
• Scientific and Archaeological Investigations
• Preparing for Under Water Operations
• Post Dive processing
• ROV Maintenance and Servicing

Teaching Outcomes:
This course will reintroduce participants to the methodology used to survey an underwater archaeological site with a remotely operated vehicle. This course has a significant practical component that provides participants with the opportunity to observe firsthand using an ROV to explore and survey an underwater archaeological site. Upon completion of the course participants should have a more complete understanding of ROV construction and how they are used in the field.

Cost and Credits:
A maximum of 7 credit points will be available in the Recording module. The cost for the course is $295 which includes an afternoon on NMC vessel Northwestern . Part III courses are open to everyone; however credit points will only be awarded to those who have completed the NAS Part I and Part II Courses.

Suggested Reading:
Bowens, Amanda et al (2009): Archaeology Underwater, The NAS Guide to Principles and Practice, Nautical Archaeology Society, Fort Cumberland.

Maritime Archaeology, A Technical Handbook 2^nd ed. J. Green. 2004. Elsevier Academic Press, San Diego

Surveying in Underwater Archaeology, Throckmorton, P. 1969. London

Bannister A, S Raymond, & R Baker, Surveying, (7th ed), Prentice Hall Hogg, A H A, Surveying for Archaeologists and other fieldworkers, Croom Helm, London.

Course Instructor: Hans Van Sumeren