LiDAR reveals a hidden city grid under tropical forests changing archaeology forever

Laser mapping shows roads and terraces in plain sight

Airborne LiDAR laser scans are uncovering concealed urban layouts beneath dense tropical forests, revealing roads, platforms, and settlements that had escaped detection. By penetrating foliage without disturbing the environment, the mapping technique speeds surveys across large regions. Researchers say it suggests ancient tropical civilizations were bigger and more connected than previously believed, and it is now pointing archaeologists to new sites.