Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR)
Overview
Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) is a remote sensing method that uses laser pulses to measure distances and create detailed three-dimensional representations of the Earth’s surface and features. LIDAR provides high-accuracy elevation data used for terrain modeling, forestry, urban planning, and flood mapping.
Key Concepts
Point cloud is the raw collection of XYZ points from laser returns. First return is the first surface encountered (vegetation canopy, buildings). Last return is typically the ground surface beneath vegetation. Point density is the number of points per unit area (pts/m²). Classification categorizes points (ground, vegetation, building, water). Intensity is the strength of the laser return signal.
LIDAR Types
| Type | Platform | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Airborne | Aircraft, helicopter | Regional mapping |
| Terrestrial | Ground-based tripod | Site documentation |
| Mobile | Vehicle-mounted | Corridor mapping |
| UAV/Drone | Small aircraft | Local surveys |
| Bathymetric | Aircraft (green laser) | Underwater mapping |
Products Derived from LIDAR
- Digital Elevation Model (DEM)
- Digital Terrain Model (DTM)
- Digital Surface Model (DSM)
- Building footprints
- Vegetation height models
Appendix
Created: 2025-12-13 | Modified: 2025-12-13
See Also
- Digital Elevation Model (DEM)
- Digital Terrain Model (DTM)
- 3D Elevation Program (3DEP)
- United States Geological Survey (USGS)