What technology uses laser range finding to measure elevation?

The technology that uses laser range finding to measure elevation is LIDAR, which stands for Light Detection and Ranging. This technology emits laser pulses toward the ground and measures the time it takes for each pulse to return after hitting a surface. By calculating the distance using the speed of light, LIDAR can create highly accurate and detailed elevation models of the terrain.

LIDAR is particularly valuable in various applications, such as topographic mapping, forestry, and urban planning, due to its ability to penetrate tree canopies and capture precise ground elevations. Its effectiveness in generating three-dimensional data is unmatched in many surveying and mapping contexts.

In contrast, bathymetry is specifically focused on measuring underwater depth and contour, often employing different methods, such as sonar. Remote sensing encompasses a broader array of technologies, including satellite and aerial imagery, but does not exclusively rely on laser range finding for elevation. GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) utilizes satellites to determine positions on the Earth's surface but does not measure elevation directly through laser pulses.