COURSE OVERVIEW:

Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) has revolutionized the way geoscientists visualize and analyze the Earth's surface by providing high-density, three-dimensional point clouds. This course explores the fundamental principles of laser scanning, including both airborne and terrestrial platforms, and how this data is converted into precise Digital Terrain Models (DTMs). Participants will learn how LiDAR can "see through" dense vegetation to reveal subtle geological structures, geomorphological features, and man-made infrastructure that are often hidden in traditional satellite imagery.

The coverage includes the technical workflow of LiDAR data processing, from initial point cloud filtering and classification to the interpolation of various surface products such as Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) and Digital Surface Models (DSMs). Attendees will study the application of high-resolution terrain data in mapping fault scarps, analyzing landslide susceptibility, and modeling drainage networks for hydrological studies. The scope also addresses the integration of LiDAR with other datasets, such as multispectral imagery, to create colorized 3D models for immersive geological interpretation.

Furthermore, the course addresses the practical implementation of LiDAR in project planning and environmental management. This includes the use of DTMs for optimized pipeline routing, site selection for energy infrastructure, and coastal erosion monitoring. Participants will explore the latest trends in the industry, such as mobile mapping systems and the use of UAV-mounted LiDAR for rapid, localized surveys. By the end of the course, participants will be able to manage LiDAR acquisition projects and utilize terrain modeling tools to enhance their geoscience analysis and decision-making processes.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

• Define the core physical principles of LiDAR and laser pulse interaction.
• Differentiate between Discrete Return and Full Waveform LiDAR systems.
• Evaluate the advantages of Airborne, Terrestrial, and Mobile LiDAR platforms.
• Manage the workflow for point cloud filtering and ground-point classification.
• Generate high-accuracy Digital Terrain Models (DTM) and Digital Surface Models (DSM).
• Utilize LiDAR to identify subtle geological structures and fault lineaments.
• Analyze geomorphological processes such as erosion, deposition, and mass wasting.
• Perform volumetric calculations for excavation, mining, or landslide analysis.
• Integrate LiDAR data into Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for spatial analysis.
• Apply terrain modeling for hydrological catchment and drainage mapping.
• Assess the accuracy and precision of LiDAR datasets using ground control points.
• Utilize LiDAR for infrastructure monitoring and site engineering assessments.
• Understand the role of LiDAR in forest canopy modeling and environmental surveys.
• Design a LiDAR acquisition program tailored to specific geoscience objectives.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

Geologists, Engineering Geologists, Civil Engineers, GIS Specialists, and Surveyors involved in terrain analysis and site characterization.

TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:

A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximise the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.

The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.

COURSE CERTIFICATE:

National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.