Which technology can scan through foliage or obstacles to determine elevation?

The correct answer is LIDAR, which stands for Light Detection and Ranging. This technology uses laser light to measure distances to the Earth’s surface. LIDAR can penetrate tree canopies and other obstacles, allowing for the collection of high-resolution elevation data even in densely vegetated areas. It works by emitting rapid pulses of light and then measuring the time it takes for those pulses to return after bouncing off the ground. This ability to penetrate foliage makes LIDAR particularly valuable in topographic surveying and forest management, where accurate elevation data is needed despite environmental obstructions.

In contrast, GPS, or Global Positioning System, is designed for determining locations based on satellite signals but does not measure elevation through vegetation. Remote sensing generally involves collecting data from satellites or aircraft but may not specialize in evaluating elevation through obstacles like LIDAR does. Bathymetry focuses on measuring underwater depths and is not applicable for scanning foliage or terrestrial surfaces.