LiDAR
DRONE TOPOGRAPHY FOR WOODED SITES
What is LiDAR?
LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) is a remote sensing technology that uses laser light to measure distances and create highly accurate 3D models of objects and landscapes. It works by emitting rapid pulses of laser light towards a target and measuring the time it takes for the light to bounce back to the sensor. By combining these time-of-flight measurements with the precise location and orientation of the sensor, LiDAR can generate detailed point cloud data that can be used for a variety of applications, including mapping, surveying, and environmental monitoring.
Why choose aerial LiDAR?
Aerial LiDAR can penetrate tree canopies by using lasers that operate in the near-infrared (NIR) spectrum. These lasers are able to pass through small gaps in the canopy and reflect off the ground below. By measuring the time it takes for the laser to bounce back to the sensor, LiDAR can generate a detailed 3D model of the forest floor and the underlying terrain, even in areas with dense vegetation. This makes LiDAR an extremely useful tool for generating bare-earth models before the site has been cleared.
After the data has been collected it then goes through an extensive process to clean the data up and make sure it is georeferenced accurately and in the right CRS (coordinate reference system). A bare-earth model is the final product that is delivered to the customer.
Is photogrammetry or LiDAR more accurate?
Both photogrammetry and LiDAR can produce highly accurate 3D models, but the accuracy of each method depends on several factors, such as the quality of the equipment used, the density of the data collection, and the processing techniques used to generate the final model. In general, LiDAR is considered to be more accurate than photogrammetry in areas with dense vegetation or complex topography. However, photogrammetry is a more cost-effective option and can produce just as accurate results when used in the right conditions.
