Airborne laser scanning: existing systems and firms and other resources

This article gives an overview of resources on airborne laser scanning (ALS). The main emphasis is on existing systems and firms, especially commercial ones. Through a very time-consuming search and with the help of numerous persons from firms, organisations and other colleagues, a quite complete survey of existing commercial systems, including detailed system parameters, has been compiled. This survey is by far the most complete and up-to-date information available today on commercial ALS. Additional data on contact information, links and, in some cases, a short background is given for firms involved in ALS (manufacturers, service providers, owners). A summary of other non-commercial and research systems, mainly of NASA, and respective links is presented. Finally, some other useful WEB links are given. The developments in ALS have been very rapid the last 1-2 years. This overview reflects these developments and describes rather completely the current situation, thus, being useful for all persons involved in ALS one way or another. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.