The Coastal and Inland Waters Heritage Science Facility (CIW)

A grassy field features a circle of weathered standing stones, some covered in lichen. A tripod and red bag are positioned near the center under a cloudy sky.

A laboratory setup includes a large black spherical device connected to wires and equipment, with two monitors showing images of an artifact. The room is decorated with posters and maps, suggesting a research or educational focus on archaeology.

A drone hovers over a lake near a small floating platform with equipment, surrounded by lush green hills. The scene suggests a scientific or environmental study in a remote natural location.

More Information

About the The Coastal and Inland Waters Heritage Science Facility (CIW)

The Coastal and Inland Waters Heritage Science Facility (CIW) supports research and innovation across the UK’s vulnerable coastal, riverine, and lacustrine environments. Based in Archaeology and working across disciplines, it combines state-of-the-art equipment with specialist expertise to deliver advanced survey and data integration across land and water.

Highlights list

High-resolution 3D data capture techniques
Uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) (drones)
Uncrewed surface vessel (USV) and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs)
Integrated hardware, software and expertise for terrestrial and underwater surveys
Data processing, analysis, visualisation, and management tools, with a focus on FAIR data principles
Training and technical support for researchers, students, and external partners

Technical specification

Laboratory space (Avenue Campus)

Dedicated lab for object-based 3D data capture
Specialist imaging equipment: photogrammetry rig, RTI dome, Artec structured light scanners, DSLR cameras, lightboxes, tripods, turntables, and other accessories
Six high-performance PCs for data processing, analysis and visualisation
Proprietary and open-access software, such as Artec Studio, Leica Cyclone 3DR, DJI Terra and Modify, Geolitix, RealityScan, Blender, ArcGIS Pro, and more

Mobile lab

Landscape survey
Leica RTC360 terrestrial laser scanner
Photogrammetry, LiDAR, infrared and multispectral aerial imaging
Range of UAVs and payloads: DJI Mini 4 Pro, Mavic 3M, Mavic 3E, and Matrice 300 RTK

Surface and underwater survey

Automated mapping, underwater survey and inspection
Uncrewed surface vessel (USV): equipped with LiDAR, multibeam echo sounder, and sonar
Remotely operated vehicles (ROVs): fitted with high-resolution sonar, cameras, and manipulators