Light Detection And Ranging (LIDAR) is a technology used to make a three-dimensional representation of the topography by using an airborne laser to scan x, y, z points on the ground.  LIDAR is the ideal technology to use when it is crucial to know the precise elevation of any object with reference to the ground.  The enormous quantity of points captured (up to 120 per second) also provides large amounts of information about the ground and surface elements.  A greater density of ground points captured means a much better three-dimensional image. Compared to other mapping technologies, LIDAR provides the elevation of any details on the ground or above it easily, accurately and rapidly.

By combining high-resolution aerial imagery with LIDAR technology, XEOS^® Imaging Inc. offers the following products:

 Digital Terrain Model (DTM) (on bare earth)

 Digital Elevation Model (DEM) (with vegetation, buildings etc.)

 Digital Intelligent Model (DIM) (Used to reduce file size by retaining only key points)

 Contour lines (up to 50 cm and 25 cm)