What is the primary function of LiDAR technology in remote sensing?

LiDAR technology, which stands for Light Detection and Ranging, primarily functions by using laser pulses to measure distances to the Earth’s surface. This capability allows it to precisely capture elevation and topography, making it an invaluable tool in fields such as geography, forestry, and environmental monitoring. By emitting laser beams towards the ground and recording the time it takes for the light to reflect back to the sensor, LiDAR can generate highly accurate three-dimensional models of terrain. This technology is particularly useful for mapping landscapes, analyzing vegetation, and even assessing changes over time in natural and built environments. The ability to create detailed height maps provides critical insights for various applications, from urban planning to ecological studies. Other options, while related to monitoring or capturing data in different contexts, do not specifically pertain to LiDAR's primary function in measuring elevation and topography.