Copyright The Hong Kong Institution of Engineering Surveyors Airborne Laser Survey Systems: Technology and Applications

As mapping products become increasingly digital and require rapid updating, it is necessary for survey companies to use fast and cost-effective technologies. Airborne laser mapping provides a new alternative for traditional photogrammetric mapping. Based on a scanning laser and GPS/Inertial positioning system, an airborne laser system automatically produces accurate digital elevation models (DEM) and digital images. Typical applications are mapping of forestry floors, determination of power line sags, monitoring of coastal zones, generation of urban models and surveying of the construction area. This paper will describe the system components, survey procedures and applications of airborne laser systems.