Topographic and geological mapping in the prehistoric area of Melka Kunture (Ethiopia)

This paper describes the results of topographical and geological surveys carried out at the prehistoric area of Melka Kunture (Ethiopia) in order to produce new detailed maps at a scale of 1:10,000 for supporting archaeological investigations and providing good reference cartography during fieldwork. The topographic support was created from the stereorestitution of two pairs of Standard Stereo IKONOS-2, 1m pansharpened satellite imageries covering an area of about 100km2. The topographic map was utilized both for the geological survey and for the interpretation of the palaeo-environmental evolution of the site based on present geomorphological features. The aerial triangulation of satellite images, performed using ground control points measured using differential GPS surveys, allowed the stereoscopic visualization of the area and the creation of a digital elevation model and orthophotos. These results were a useful cartographic aid during the geological survey when all the outcrops along gullies, streams, roads and rivers were inspected and documented through additional in-depth field checks. The geological map was created and refined using the digital elevation model and photointerpretation of stereo and orthoimageries, making it possible to fully identify the geological boundaries between formations and recognize geomorphological features.