Field investigations of sites based on archaeological data of past years using historical satellite images

The paper proposes possible identifications and clarifications of Khorezm archaeological sites discovered in the mid-1950s by the archaeological and topographic party of the Khorezm archaeological and ethnographic expedition (KhAEE) led by B. V. Andrianov in the Lower Amudarya and the Lower Syrdarya region. Artificial irrigation systems were the main object of the research. Other archaeological sites were surveyed and mapped as well. In the publications each itinerary in a specific location was assigned a search number, whereas all objects or features discovered in a location and recorded during the search (the so called search points according to B. V. Andrianov) were given a specific number. The location of each search point was documented relative to other similar points without using the system of geographical coordinates and, in some cases, even without topographic plans. Today analysis of anthropogenic landscape in specific localities is conducted with correlation of more precise modern information with earlier data that are approximate. It complicates search and identification of objects discovered by the topographic party even in the case these objects have survived. To solve this problem, the data collected by the KhAEE team were complemented with satellite images made in the 1970s that demonstrate many objects discovered by B. V. Andrianov. Focusing on these extended data, surface reconnaissance of the sites was carried out and more accurate information suitable for preparing the GIS of the region was obtained.