NASA | Laser Mapping The Earth

Bryan Blair, an instrument scientist, discusses the LVIS Sensor, a high-altitude laser mapping tool. He explains its broad applications, including mapping large landscapes and entire glacier systems. The LVIS Sensor was used in the Antarctic Peninsula to create interactive topography data. With advancements like the Global Hawk drone, mapping capabilities have expanded significantly, allowing for rapid and extensive area coverage. The ultimate goal is to apply this technology to planetary mapping, enabling frequent and comprehensive Earth and other planetary surveys.

What is the primary function of the LVIS Sensor?

• To monitor ocean currents

• To map large areas quickly from high altitudes

• To track wildlife movements

• To measure atmospheric pressure

During the 2009 Antarctic Peninsula mission, what additional data was collected alongside LVIS data?

• Seismic activity data

• Temperature readings

• High-resolution camera imagery

• Wind speed measurements

What was a significant advantage of using the Global Hawk drone with the LVIS Sensor?

• It required less maintenance

• It had a longer flight duration and wider swath

• It was more cost-effective

• It could fly at lower altitudes

How has the LVIS Sensor changed the perception of mapping capabilities among scientists?

• It has increased the time required for mapping

• It has limited the scope of mapping to specific regions

• It has proven that large areas can be mapped quickly

• It has shown that only small areas can be mapped

What future application is mentioned for the LVIS technology?

• Monitoring air quality

• Planetary mapping

• Mapping ocean floors

• Tracking migratory birds