Comb-based multispectral LiDAR providing reflectance and distance spectra

Area of Science:

• Optics
• Spectroscopy
• Remote Sensing

Background:

• Multispectral LiDAR combines 3D geometry and material property measurements.
• Existing systems offer mm-range resolution and reflectance estimates across limited spectral channels.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel multispectral LiDAR approach utilizing an ultra-broadband frequency comb.
• To enhance remote spectroscopy by resolving relative delays and reflectance.
• To encode detailed material information through spectrally-resolved distance and reflectance spectra.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a frequency comb-based multispectral LiDAR system (580-900 nm).
• System features 2 spectral configurations with 7 and 33 channels.
• Differential observations to a reference object and system calibration for data transformation.

Main Results:

• Achieved distance measurement precision better than 0.1 mm on most channels.
• Demonstrated discrimination of material specimens using distance and reflectance spectra.
• Novel distance signature significantly improved classification accuracy for inhomogeneous surfaces.

Conclusions:

• The frequency comb multispectral LiDAR system provides enhanced material characterization.
• Combining distance and reflectance spectra significantly boosts material classification accuracy.
• This approach holds potential for advanced remote sensing and material analysis.