What Are The Three Types Of LiDAR?

What are the three types of LiDAR?

**Introduction
LiDAR, or Light Detection and Ranging, is a technology that uses laser beams to measure distances and create detailed 3D maps of the environment. LiDAR is widely used in various fields, including geomatics, archaeology, forestry, and urban planning. There are three main types of LiDAR: airborne, terrestrial, and mobile.

**Airborne LiDAR
Airborne LiDAR, also known as aerial LiDAR, is a type of LiDAR that is mounted on an aircraft or drone. It is commonly used to create high-resolution maps of large areas, such as forests, cities, and coastal zones. Airborne LiDAR can cover large areas quickly and efficiently, making it an ideal tool for mapping and surveying.

Airborne LiDAR sends out laser beams to the ground below, and then measures the time it takes for the laser to bounce back to the aerial sensor. This information is used to create a precise 3D map of the terrain. Airborne LiDAR can also be used to create elevation models, detect vegetation, and map the location of buildings and infrastructure.

**Terrestrial LiDAR
Terrestrial LiDAR, also known as ground-based LiDAR or TLS, is a type of LiDAR that is mounted on a tripod or vehicle and used to map small and medium-sized areas, such as archaeological sites, buildings, and construction sites. Terrestrial LiDAR is often used when high-resolution data is required, or when objects or buildings are obstructing the view from the air.

Terrestrial LiDAR works in a similar way to airborne LiDAR, but from a stationary position. The LiDAR sends out laser beams to the environment, and then measures the time it takes for the laser to reflect back. This information is used to create a precise 3D map of the area. Terrestrial LiDAR can be used to create detailed models of buildings, monuments, and even entire cities.

**Mobile LiDAR
Mobile LiDAR is a type of LiDAR that is mounted on a moving vehicle, such as a car, train, or boat. Mobile LiDAR is often used to map roads, bridges, railways, and other large linear infrastructures. Mobile LiDAR is also used for urban planning and surveying.

Mobile LiDAR works by using multiple sensors that capture data as the vehicle moves. The lasers send out beams and measure the time it takes for the beam to return to the sensor. This information is used to create a precise 3D map of the environment. Mobile LiDAR is fast, efficient, and can capture data from a variety of angles.

**Conclusion
In summary, LiDAR technology has revolutionized the way we map and survey the environment. The three main types of LiDAR, airborne, terrestrial, and mobile, all have unique strengths and weaknesses and are used in various fields for mapping and surveying. As LiDAR technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see new applications and innovations in the near future.