Remote Sensing Archaeology of the Xixia Imperial Tombs: Analyzing Burial Landscapes and Geomantic Layouts

A suspected true location for the ninth imperial tomb (M9) of the Xixia Imperial Tombs has been identified using declassified GAMBIT imagery, significantly advancing understanding of Tangut burial practices and geomantic layouts. This discovery was achieved through an integrated remote sensing approach combining multi-resolution satellite data—including Gaofen-2 (GF-2), Landsat-8 OLI, and Google Earth—with deep learning techniques like YOLOv5 for automated feature detection. The study also applied spectral indices and image fusion to enhance archaeological feature visibility, demonstrating the effectiveness of this methodology for site preservation and analysis. By providing a replicable framework for heritage studies, the research underscores the potential of advanced remote sensing and machine learning in uncovering and safeguarding cultural landscapes.

Ji, W., Li, L., Yang, J., Hao, Y., & Luo, L. (2025). Remote Sensing Archaeology of the Xixia Imperial Tombs: Analyzing Burial Landscapes and Geomantic Layouts. Remote Sensing, 17(14), 2395. https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17142395