Archaeological Discoveries at Portus

The speaker discusses the importance of reputation in academia and shares their experience collaborating with Southampton University on the Portus archaeological site. They describe the use of satellite imagery to uncover new findings, including the discovery of a missing amphitheater. The talk highlights the challenges faced, the lessons learned, and the importance of using the right technology strategically. The speaker concludes by thanking supporters and encouraging others to look for new perspectives when facing challenges.

What is considered more feared by scientists and academics than physical harm?

• Loss of funding

• Loss of reputation

• Loss of data

• Loss of equipment

What was the primary function of Portus during the Roman Empire?

• A port for trade

• A residential area

• A religious site

• A military base

What technology did the speaker initially use to find structures at Portus?

• Drones

• High-resolution satellite imagery

• LIDAR

• Ground-penetrating radar

What was the unexpected outcome when the speaker shared initial findings with Professor Keay?

• The findings were incorrect

• The findings were irrelevant

• The findings were already known

• The findings were groundbreaking

What new feature was discovered using the latest satellite imagery?

• A new road

• A fortress

• A temple

• A canal

What was the speaker's initial thought about the oval feature found in the imagery?

• It was a burial site

• It was an ancient amphitheater

• It was a natural formation

• It was a modern structure

What did the discovery of the amphitheater suggest about the Portus site?

• It had significant cultural activities

• It was abandoned quickly

• It was primarily a residential area

• It was a military stronghold

What lesson did the speaker learn about using technology in archaeology?

• Technology is unnecessary

• Different tools are needed for different discoveries

• Technology is always reliable

• Only traditional methods work

What does the speaker suggest doing when feeling at the end of one's rope?

• Look up

• Ask for help

• Give up

• Look down

What broader questions does the discovery at Portus allow researchers to ask?

• Questions about Roman fashion

• Questions about Roman cuisine

• Questions about the relationship between the living and the dead

• Questions about Roman military strategies