BATHYMETRIC LiDAR - GREEN LiDAR
Bathymetric surveys using airborne LiDAR
We provide bathymetric LiDAR surveys everywhere in Europe
AIRBORNE
Carried by a drone, our LiDAR sensor collects bathymetric data without coming into contact with water.
Versatile
Adapted to complex environments like shores, rivers, lakes, estuaries, ponds and gravel pits, commercial ports.
Blend Topo Bathy
Collect simutaneously topographic & bathymetric data. Both in the same CRS and same flight.
About us
Specializing in airborne data acquisition, HELIX is based in Ajaccio, in southern Corsica, as well as in St Paul in Reunion. We can operate in several mapping mission such as photogrammetry, aircraft mapping, LiDAR surveys and topography.
In 2024 we acquired a completely new type of sensor: An airborne Bathymetric LiDAR in order to be able to expand our skills and answer clients needs.
All-terrain and dynamic, our team operates across Europe and the Indian Ocean to perform your bathymetric surveys using green LiDAR technology.
Discover our work on www.helix.corsica
Discover the Bathymetric LiDAR technology below.
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Bathymetric LiDAR
1 - The Benefits of Airborne LiDAR in Bathymetry
Unlike SONAR bathymetry (Sound – shown in red), LiDAR bathymetry uses light (Light – shown in green) to measure the return time.
LiDAR : Light Dectection And Ranging
SONAR : SOund NAvigation Ranging
1 - Versatility
Airborne LiDAR bathymetry proves to be more versatile than traditional SONAR bathymetry. Indeed, the aerial drone overcomes any obstacles along its path while simultaneously collecting both topographic and bathymetric data.
2 - Speed
A drone is much easier to deploy than a boat. No launch is required, and there are no ferry costs involved. We can operate more quickly and efficiently compared to SONAR bathymetry.
3 - Efficiency
LiDAR bathymetry offers excellent efficiency in shallow or hard-to-reach areas. When combined with SONAR bathymetry for deeper regions, it becomes the ideal method for obtaining comprehensive, accurate bathymetric surveys tailored to your clients' needs.
2 - Standard Deliverables in LiDAR Bathymetry
Similar to SONAR bathymetry, LiDAR bathymetry also provides a "Water Surface" classification , along with a precise rendering of the surrounding topography (emerged areas).
Cloud Point
Dense and georeferenced point clouds. These are absolute data ( height above geoid ), making them independent of potential tidal variations.
DTM / DEM
Digital Terrain Models (DTM) and Digital Surface Models (DSM) generated shortly after data capture. Typical resolution: 15cm per pixel.
Water surface
A "water surface" classification is available, enabling the calculation of water depth down to 5 cm. This is highly useful for a range of scenarios.
Classified Cloud Point
Thanks to LiDAR, it is possible to classify the point cloud into categories such as water surface, water bottom, ground, vegetation, and buildings.
Isobath curves
Generated from the DTM or DSM, it is very quick to model lines of equivalent depths. Providing valuable insights for various applications
Volume calculation
Volume calculations using DTM: ideal for dredging operations, volume assessments, and comparisons of DTMs over time. Repeatable, ensuring consistent results.
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Questions / FAQ
All the questions you may have about airborne LiDAR bathymetry.
Generally speaking, an absolute error of 3 cm can be expected.
A conventional LiDAR emits in the near-infrared spectrum (905nm), a wavelength that is largely absorbed by water. However, a bathymetric LiDAR, operating at a wavelength of 532nm, is much more effective at penetrating deeper water columns.
Indeed, the points measured immediately after acquisition are inaccurate because the speed of light is different in air and water. However, it is possible to post-process this data to recalculate the points located beneath the water's surface. After classification, this correction can is applied and underwater points are now accurate.
The data provided can be either absolute or relative.
- Absolute refers to GPS coordinates (X, Y, Z).
- Relative refers to data measured in relation to a water depth at a specific moment in time (T).
- Corsica : < 24h
- South of France : < 72h
- Europe : < 5 Days typically or less if needed
- Other part of the world ( Indian Ocean for ex. ) : < 15 Days typically or less if needed
Typically : 25cm/pixel ( ~20 points / m² ).
It is also possible to adjust the resolution of the bathymetric survey according to your specific requirements.
Our bathymetric LiDAR is one of the most advanced systems that can be mounted on a drone. It can penetrate up to 2 Secchi.
In clear water, this typically corresponds to a depth of 15-20 metres.
No minimum depth is required.
That's the real advantage of this technology.
We can collect data in extremely shallow areas (as little as a few centimetres) while simultaneously surveying the surrounding topography.
In general, the daily cost of a bathymetric LiDAR acquisition is higher than that of a SONAR survey.
However, the efficiency of bathymetric LiDAR is significantly greater, allowing for a substantial reduction in overall costs.
Let's dive in !
Would you like to learn more about Bathymetric LiDAR? Our team is available for an in-person demonstration. We are also available for virtual meetings.
Meet us
In Corsica or Réunion, contact us to arrange a meeting directly at your premises.
Virtual demo
A virtual meeting during which we will answer all your questions about bathymetric LiDAR, as well as present previously collected data.
Live demo
A Bathymetric LiDAR survey directly at your site or in your region. Contact us to arrange a demonstration.
Related Sites
Visit our other sites dedicated to topography and aerial mapping.
Aerial mapping, LiDAR surveys, maritime monitoring, traffic studies, orthophotography.
Topographic surveys and studies, road and utility works (VRD), volume calculations, as-built plans, execution plans.
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