What is LiDAR scanning?

LiDAR, which stands for Light Detection and Ranging, is a remote sensing method that uses a pulsed laser to measure ranges (distances) to a surface.

According to the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, these light pulses, combined with other data recorded by the sensing system, generate precise, three-dimensional information about the shape of a surface and its characteristics. A LiDAR instrument principally consists of a laser, a scanner, and a specialized GPS receiver. When applied indoors or around a facility, LiDAR scanning captures the geometry needed to build accurate three-dimensional maps and digital models.

Defined from authoritative sources

This definition is drawn from the sources below, last verified 2026-06-23. How we verify.

1. NOAA National Ocean Service: What is lidar? verified 2026-06-23

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