Bathymetric LiDAR Mapping

Bathymetric LiDAR is a specialized form of LiDAR technology that is used to map the depth and shape of underwater environments, such as lakes, rivers, and oceans. Bathymetric LiDAR works by emitting laser pulses into the water and measuring the time it takes for the light to reflect back from the surface of the water and the bottom of the water body.

The bathymetric LiDAR technology operates similarly to terrestrial LiDAR, but with different technical specifications. The laser is emitted at a different wavelength and is absorbed by the water to a greater degree, reducing the amount of energy that reaches the bottom of the water body. The return signal from the water surface is also significantly weaker than the signal returned from the ground surface in terrestrial LiDAR.

Bathymetric LiDAR data can be used to create high-resolution maps of underwater topography, including the depth of the water and the shape of the underwater terrain. This information can be used for a range of applications, including nautical charting, hydrographic surveying, environmental monitoring, and underwater infrastructure planning and management.

One of the advantages of bathymetric LiDAR is that it can map underwater environments with higher accuracy and detail than traditional sonar mapping techniques. However, it is generally more expensive and has a limited range compared to other bathymetric survey methods.