Laser Profiler

Airborne Laser Altimeter

Hydrology and Remote Sensing Lab

AeroCommander Laser Operator
An airborne laser altimeter can be used to measure surface features and properties of the landscape. The laser altimeter makes 4000 measurements per second with a vertical resolution of 5 cm. Landscape profiles of any length can be measured and analyzed for either micro-topographic or macro-topographic features. Laser altimeter data can be used to measure vegetation canopy height, cover, and distribution. Laser altimeter measurements of the landscape can provide detailed data on landscape surface features and properties for understanding natural and agricultural landscapes.
Schematic of Laser Profiler
Contact: Dr. Jerry Ritchie jritchie@asrr.arsusda.gov

Now view some results of using the airborne laser altimeter

Back to the remote sensing at BARC overview


An airborne laser altimeter can be used to measure surface features and properties of the landscape. The laser altimeter makes 4000 measurements per second with a vertical resolution of 5 cm. Landscape profiles of any length can be measured and analyzed for either micro-topographic or macro-topographic features. Laser altimeter data can be used to measure vegetation canopy height, cover, and distribution. Laser altimeter measurements of the landscape can provide detailed data on landscape surface features and properties for understanding natural and agricultural landscapes.