Scanning Lidar Bathymeter For Water Depth Measurement

A scanning lidar bathymeter has been developed for airborne hydrographic surveying. The system has depth penetration capability of four optical diffuse attenuation lengths, with an accuracy of ±0.3 m. From an altitude of 500 m the system generates a swath 270 m wide, and a uniform sounding density on a 35 m grid spacing, with a positioning accuracy of approximately 15 m. A description of the system is given, with emphasis on the design and performance characteristics of the optical transceiver. Results from system flight tests are summarized, including those from a recent operational hydrographic survey in the Canadian Arctic.