Editorial: Applications of Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) in Geosciences

Abstract

Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR, or laser altimetry) is an optical remote sensing technology that uses laser pulses from ground- based, airborne, or space borne platforms to measure the distances to objects. LiDAR has been extensively used for atmospheric research and mapping land surface features including topography, vegetation, and the built-up environment. This editorial provides a brief summary of the applications of airborne discrete-return LiDAR in geosciences.