Archaeology Without Digging: OKM at denkmal 2026
From 5 to 7 November 2026, OKM exhibited at denkmal in Leipzig, the European trade fair for conservation, restoration and old building renovation. In the archaeology area, our team showed how the ground can be examined before the first spade goes in. As the only exhibitor presenting measuring technology for the subsurface, we had many conversations, above all with archaeologists.
Examine the Ground Without Opening It
Every excavation changes the ground, and what has been dug up cannot be returned to its original state. This is where OKM devices come in: they provide information from beneath the surface without drilling or digging.
Our 3D ground scanners measure anomalies in the subsurface, meaning spots where the ground differs from its surroundings. The software displays these readings as a colour-coded 3D visualisation. From it, you can read where an anomaly lies, how deep it is and roughly how large it is.
This lets you survey an area first and then focus excavation on the spots where the measurement provides indications. It saves time and keeps interventions in the ground to a minimum.
Strong Interest From Archaeologists
The response from trade visitors was clear. Many archaeologists wanted to know how non-invasive surveys fit into their fieldwork, from the initial assessment of a site to planning a targeted excavation.
Three questions came up again and again at our stand:
- What can the devices do? They make anomalies in the subsurface visible and show their position, depth and approximate size.
- What exactly are they? Geophysical measuring technology, developed and manufactured by OKM in Altenburg.
- Who uses them? Anyone who wants to know what lies in the ground before intervening, for example in archaeology, research and prospection.
The Rover C4 as a Visitor Magnet
The Rover C4 attracted particular attention. Its illuminated design drew visitors and fellow exhibitors alike to our stand. First curiosity often turned into in-depth conversations about measuring methods, fields of application and data analysis.
Feedback That Shapes Development
Colleagues from production and development also joined us at the stand. For them, the fair was a chance to meet users in person and hear their requirements first-hand. We are taking this feedback back to Altenburg, where our devices are developed and manufactured.
We also learned a lot for our next trade fair appearance. We want to show even faster and more clearly what our devices can do and where they are used.
Conclusion
denkmal 2026 showed that non-invasive ground surveys are an important topic in archaeology. We would like to thank all visitors for the good conversations and valuable input.
Planning a Survey in the Field?
We will gladly advise you on which OKM device suits your question and your terrain.
Request Expert AdviceFAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Scanners in Archaeology
1. Can a 3D ground scanner replace an excavation?
No. A ground scanner provides indications of where anomalies are located in the subsurface. It helps you plan excavations more precisely and avoid unnecessary interventions. What exactly lies in the ground only becomes clear once it is uncovered.
2. What does the 3D visualisation show?
The software displays the readings in colour code. From this, you can read the position, depth and approximate size of an anomaly. The display does not show outlines or shapes of objects.
3. Who are OKM devices suitable for in archaeology?
For anyone who wants to survey an area before intervening in the ground, for example during prospection, in research or when preparing an excavation.
4. Where are the devices made?
OKM develops and manufactures its devices in Altenburg, Germany.
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