A proposed search strategy for the use of drones in detecting unmarked burials

Anomalies from graves ranging from interment to 107 years old are detected using visual changes in RGB orthomosaics. Burials detected using digital surface models begin as mounds, level out between two and three years post-burial and become depressions detectable up to 134 years. Vegetation indices, such as NDVI, are useful in detecting ground disturbances where bare soil is easily differentiated from healthy vegetation, as well as quantifying the health of pioneer vegetation, which was able to distinguish grave and non-grave vegetation in burials up to 107 years old.<br><br>Lessons learned in the drone search process as well as burial trends established over these 20 sites and published studies are integrated into a Geoforensic Drone Search Protocol, which not only demonstrates a step-by-step guide to conducting clandestine grave searches using drones but serves as a decision-making tool whereby investigators can set expectations, prioritise outputs, conduct necessary desk study and site preparation, and select supplementary search tools.<br><br><i>Thesis embargoed until 31st December 2026</i>.<br>