Autonomous Integrated Systems in Archaeology

> This dataset contains the research article titled "Autonomous Subsurface Exploration: A Dual-Platform Robotic Framework for Precision Archaeology." The project investigates the integration of autonomous ground vehicles (SAGE rover) and aerial recovery units (ART-D drone) to modernize archaeological field methods. The research addresses three primary barriers identified through expert consultation with global archaeologist Mohammed Abualsaid: (1) The lack of government funding for high-tech manual surveying in developing regions, (2) The significant occupational hazards faced by field researchers, including venomous wildlife and unstable terrain, and (3) The technical gap in real-time subsurface decision-making. Key innovations detailed in this paper include a Bayesian-based "Confidence Score" algorithm for autonomous "dig or avoid" commands and the conceptual "Tunable Rheological Smart Gel" (TRSG) for the vibration-free transport of fragile artifacts. This work was developed as an Innovation Project for the 2025-2026 FIRST LEGO League season to provide a scalable, safe, and cost-effective solution for global heritage preservation.