The lidar (light detection and ranging) technology has already been used in surveys in Wiltshire and Gloucestershire, the latter of which resulted in hundreds of features being revealed that are considered worthy of further investigation by archaeologists.

Lidar is similar to radio detection and ranging technology and measures the tiny differences in time it takes for pulses to be reflected back to recording instruments in the aircraft.

Data is fed into mapping computers to produce images of the ground that look as if the trees have been stripped away. Thus, man-made ground features hidden by tree cover can be easily spotted and investigated.

Foresters can also use the system accurately to map forests in a way which distinguishes trees of different heights and ages, including veteran trees. It can also inform harvesting plans, show up forest tracks, drainage ditches, timber extraction routes and other features.

The information can be visualised in three dimensions to improve forest management activities, including harvesting and thinning.

Forestry Commission England archaeologist Tim Yarnell said lidar enabled planning foresters to “see” the forest floor clearly.