In the archaeological area of Augusta Bagiennorum different tests have been performed since 1990, in order to support the archaeological scientists using geomatics techniques. Photogrammetric aerial surveys (both helicopter and aircraft platforms were used) for large scale mapping, implementation of Geographic Information System devoted to archaeological investigations and Lidar surveys have been performed.

This archaeological scenario is an optimal test site to test the performances of the UAV prototype developed for ITHACA (Information Technology for Humanitarian Assistance, Cooperation and Action), a Centre of Excellence created by Politecnico di Torino (DITAG) and Si. TI (Istituto Superiore sui Sistemi Territoriali per l’Innovazione) to support the UN WFP (Word Food Programme) activities. The main goal of the UAV project is to support disaster management through an innovative and effective tool for rapid mapping purposes in the early impact stage. The UAV is easily transportable on normal aircrafts and usable on the field, autonomously, by a couple of operators. The platform is equipped with the autopilot MP2128g, which allows an autonomous flight except for take-off and landing, and with digital sensors characterised by geometric and radiometric resolutions suitable for digital photogrammetry.