Basics of LIDAR
Lidar stands for LIght Detection And Ranging Systems. It consists of a laser (light beam)
being emitted from an aircraft to the surface of the Earth, and reflected back to a sensor on board the aircraft. Using Global Positioning System triangulation, the exact location of the aircraft is also recorded. Thus, elevations of the surface of the Earth's topography and cover, such as trees and buildings, can be
mapped with minimal error.
What are the benefits of using LIDAR versus other remote sensing capabilities?
LIDAR is an "active" sensing system. It is completely
user-controlled and uses its own energy source. Because of this, LIDAR data can be collected day or night.
What LIDAR is not
LIDAR is not RADAR. RADAR is a radio frequency signal; LIDAR is a beam of light with a much higher frequency.
The higher frequency laser used in LIDAR is less susceptible to interference from other signals. Also, LIDAR
is not all-weather. Clouds and fog block the laser beam; however, some haze is manageable. In addition, LIDAR is
not able to completely and accurately collect data through trees or other ground cover. Generally, the first object a LIDAR beam encounters is where distance is recorded. LIDAR is also not a viable substitute for conventional or digital aerial photography.
Some useful LIDAR Links For Further Information