Man, LIDAR technology is a game-changer, especially when it comes to archaeology and exploring places like the Amazon. So, let’s break it down. Graham Hancock talks about how LIDAR allows us to see what’s underneath all that dense jungle without destroying it. That's huge!

1. Uncovering Hidden History: It’s revealing ancient structures that were completely covered up by the rainforest for centuries. This could change our understanding of civilization in the Americas, like how those earthworks are dating back thousands of years.

2. Non-Invasive Exploration: You get to map these sites without tearing down trees or disturbing the ecosystem. It’s using technology to preserve nature while digging into our past, which is super important.

3. Data-Driven Evidence: This tech gives archaeologists clear, dated evidence of ancient civilizations. Graham mentions that "extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence," and LIDAR provides that solid backing to those claims.

4. Strategic Insights: On a broader scale, the ability to discover and learn about ancient human practices could have implications for modern agriculture and planning. Who knows what sustainable practices we might replicate based on what we find?

Overall, funding research for LIDAR is about pushing the boundaries of what we know and bringing our history to light in a responsible way. It’s like giving a voice to the past without blowing it up! Crazy stuff!