A new photon-counting lidar system for vegetation analysis.

摘要: This paper considers the potential of a new scanning photon-counting system for vegetation analysis. The 3D Mapper sensor was developed by Sigma Space Corporation and is being tested within NASA’s Carbon Monitoring System (CMS) project (NASA, 2010). able to map 60 km per hour using less than 150 mW 532 nm green light with about 30 cm between measurement points. While this area coverage rate already several orders magnitude higher can be achieved conventional lidar, substitution power lasers would permit significantly mapping rates same resolution or much spatial at current rates. Data were collected test site west Fredericksburg, Virginia, USA demonstrated capability low powered laser, relatively high density data collection, good penetration through canopy, despite canopy fractional cover hazy atmosphere time flight. preliminary study supports emerging technology Further research required develop algorithms exploit capabilities such systems provide greater understanding interactions vegetated surfaces. Studies nature will inform future satellite lidar sensors as ICESat II, which due launch beginning 2016.