What is lidar?
LIDAR is an acroynm for Light Detection and Ranging. LIDAR is a method of analyzing laser light reflected from the surface of distant objects to detect these objects and determine their characteristics.

How does it work?
LIDAR operates on the same principle as RADAR. The LIDAR instrument transmits pulsed or continuous wave light out to a target. This light interacts with the target, and some of it is reflected back to the instrument. Changes in the properties of the light enable the instrument to determine the target's characteristics, such as distance, speed, and chemical concentrations.

What are its advantages?
•• extremely accurate
•• can penetrate most foliage
•• ability to survey without setting foot on site

What's LIDAR used for?
•• 3D modeling
•• highly accurate topographic mapping
•• surface modeling
•• flood plain analysis
•• forest inventory applications