Portable hyperspectral lidar utilizing 5 GHz multichannel full waveform digitization.

Area of Science:

• Geospatial Science
• Geophysics
• Spectroscopy

Background:

• Multichannel terrestrial LiDARs, like the FGI HSL, integrate 3D topography with spectral data.
• Previous supercontinuum-based HSL instruments faced limitations in portability and sensitivity, hindering widespread application.
• Advancements in LiDAR technology are crucial for expanding its use in challenging environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a newly designed, robust field-ready Finnish Geospatial Research Institute hyperspectral LiDAR (FGI HSL).
• To detail the improved pulse digitizing scheme and assess the system's enhanced measuring accuracy.
• To demonstrate novel applications, including underground mine surveys and detailed rock spectral analysis.

Main Methods:

• Development of a new, compact, and robust field design for the FGI HSL.
• Implementation of an advanced pulse digitizing scheme to enhance data acquisition.
• Performance assessment of the new LiDAR system and preliminary algorithm development.

Main Results:

• The redesigned FGI HSL exhibits significantly improved measuring accuracy and portability.
• The system successfully conducted measurements in underground mine environments.
• Minute spectral differences in various rock types were effectively detected.

Conclusions:

• The enhanced FGI HSL system overcomes previous limitations, enabling practical applications previously deemed impractical.
• The new LiDAR design facilitates detailed geological surveys in challenging subterranean settings.
• This technology holds significant potential for mineral exploration and geological characterization.