Light detection and ranging of natural systems

Abstract

Light detection and ranging (lidar) is an active remote sensing technology that can consistently measure distances by emitting light from a laser source and recording the signal reflected from the target. Laser scanning or profiling enables the systematic acquisition of these measurements over an area. These measurements can be aggregated into point cloud and waveform datasets that precisely characterize the geometric structure of objects and landscapes. Lidar technology thus generates foundational geospatial datasets across various natural sciences fields. In this Primer, we explain the technologies behind lidar systems and introduce typical platforms and data acquisition considerations. We then focus on four lidar use cases: vegetation, topography, bathymetry and glaciology. For each case, we highlight key considerations, opportunities, data processing workflows and applications, alongside example lidar datasets and derived information products. Finally, we provide an overview of the challenges and limitations of using lidar data in natural systems and discuss potential future developments in sensors, platforms, algorithms and applications.