Lidar News Weekly RECAP
Lidar News Weekly RECAP – Curated and written by Adam Clark.
UK and China develop 3D orchard mapping tool
Researchers from the UK’s Niab and Nanjing Agricultural University have teamed up to create OrchardQuant 3D, a system combining drone imagery and LiDAR data to build detailed three-dimensional models of orchards. The tool measures traits such as tree height, crown volume, branch architecture, blossom density, etc. which is key for estimating yield and fruit quality. It has been trialled in pear orchards in China and apple orchards in the UK, enabling scalable analysis over many trees. Because it speeds up tasks that once took weeks of manual work, it aids pruning, thinning, spraying, and supports breeding. The code is open-access.
https://www.freshplaza.com/asia/article/9765571/uk-and-china-develop-3d-orchard-mapping-tool
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Tropical Cirrus Lifetime Estimated From Superpressure Balloon‐Borne Lidar Observations
Scientists used long-duration balloons carrying lidar instruments over the Pacific to measure how long thin, high cirrus clouds last in the tropics. They found most clouds disappear within an hour, but on average they last about six hours. A small number endure for more than half a day and, despite being rare, account for most of the cloud cover. Comparing these results to the ERA5 climate reanalysis showed similar lifetimes but far fewer clouds overall in the model. The study highlights the role of slower tropical wave patterns and radiation feedbacks in controlling cloud persistence.
https://hal.science/hal-05247878v1
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New 3D mapping system transforms crime scene investigations in Wythe County
The Wythe County Sheriff’s Office in Virginia has acquired a Leica crime scene mapping system, funded by a grant. The system can capture over 2 million measurements per second, allowing crime scenes to be documented with greater efficiency and accuracy. In court, judges and juries can view crime scenes in 3D as investigators saw them. Sheriff Cline calls the technology a “game-changer,” improving crime solving, enhancing justice, and providing educational opportunities and he plans to allow local students to see how law enforcement uses modern tech. Taxpayers don’t bear the cost, thanks to grant funding.
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NE Aquarium is using drones as a less invasive way to study right whales. How it works
Scientists at the New England Aquarium in Boston are using drones and photogrammetry to monitor whale health. Photogrammetry is the process of taking multiple high-resolution photos from different angles and using them to measure body size, growth, and overall condition in 3D all without touching the animal. This non-invasive approach lets researchers assess endangered North Atlantic right whales in New England and killer whales in Alaska. Findings show right whales are shifting feeding grounds to colder waters, increasing risks from ships and fishing gear. With only about 370 right whales left, this work is critical for conservation.
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Adam has spent the past 13 years exploring the world from above by using drones, satellites, and mapping tools to better understand our landscapes. Connect with him on LinkedIn: Adam Clark
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