A Guide to Drone LiDAR Mapping

LiDAR mapping is a surveying technique that uses remote sensing technology to gather elevation data about a plot of land. A LiDAR module sends out thousands — or even hundreds of thousands — of laser pulses per second, each capturing a data point that compiles into a final point cloud.

In drone LiDAR mapping, the module is mounted to an unmanned aircraft and carried over the survey area. The system also leverages inertial measurement units (IMU) and GNSS receivers to improve accuracy.

Data from the flight is collected and compiled via LiDAR software to create a point cloud. Applications for that data include:

• Assessing a land parcel for future construction projects.
• Understanding the altitude and terrain of wooded areas without more cumbersome methods.
• Creating maps of shorelines and other natural features.

LiDAR and photogrammetry are both excellent drone surveying methods. The primary difference is how 3D points are calculated.

Drone LiDAR technology is available at a wide range of price points. The size and payload capacity of the drone, the accuracy of the IMU, and a variety of other factors contribute to the final price. Typical pricing ranges from $17,400 for the Zenmuse L3 to $39,990 for the RESEPI Hesai XT-32M2X. Both include strong LiDAR sensors, a high-quality camera, and an RTK GNSS — the main differentiator at the high end is IMU accuracy.

The drone itself is an additional cost. The DJI Matrice 400 RTK is $10,450. You may also need a base station such as the Emlid Reach RS2+.