G2 SURVEYS

What is Lidar and what is it used for?

20 January 2021

“LIDAR, which stands for Light Detection and Ranging, is a remote sensing method that uses light in the form of a pulsed laser to measure ranges (variable distances) to the Earth. These light pulses—combined with other data recorded by the airborne system— generate precise, three-dimensional information about the shape of the Earth and its surface characteristics.

A LIDAR instrument which is used in Lidar surveys principally consists of a laser, a scanner, and a specialized GPS receiver. Airplanes and helicopters are the most commonly used platforms for acquiring LIDAR SURVEY data over broad areas. Two types of LIDAR are topographic and bathymetric. Topographic LIDAR Survey implemented by G2 Surveys typically uses a near-infrared laser to map the land, while bathymetric lidar uses water-penetrating green light to also measure seafloor and riverbed elevations.

LIDAR systems allow scientists and mapping professionals to examine both natural and manmade environments with accuracy, precision, and flexibility. NOAA scientists are using LIDAR to produce more accurate shoreline maps, make digital elevation models for use in geographic information systems, to assist in emergency response operations, and in many other applications.”

LIDAR (sometimes also written as “LiDAR”, “Lidar”, or “LADAR”) is used by G2 Surveys in a wide range of land management and planning efforts, including hazard assessment (including lava flows, landslides, tsunamis, and floods), forestry, agriculture, geologic mapping, and watershed and river surveys.

LIDAR SURVEYS is also used by G2 Surveys in any situation where the structure and shape of Earth’s surface needs to be known, and can even measure some gases and particles in the atmosphere. Its versatility and high resolution give it applications in archaeology, climate monitoring, city planning, meteorology, mining, and much more.

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