South West Pacific Survey with Airborne Laser Bathymetry
Fugro has commissioned an additional airborne laser bathymetry system to underpin its development and application of bathymetric Lidar technology. The combined Fugro LADS Mk3 and Riegl VQ-820-G systems provide seamless measurements and mapping of nearshore and shallow-water environments. The increased capability will enable Fugro to deliver simultaneous topographic and bathymetric surveys in multiple geographical areas.
With high power and frequency, the combined systems achieve coverage that minimises gaps and outperforms lower energy alternatives and single sensor systems in all conditions, particularly in difficult environments. They are highly adaptable and small enough to be installed in a variety of light aircraft.
With continued operations across the Middle East during 2015, Fugro will also begin a South West Pacific Airborne Lidar Bathymetry (ALB) survey campaign following the award of projects in multiple locations to support nautical charting, coastal engineering, scientific assessments, coastal management, benthic habitat mapping and climate change initiatives.
Since 2012 Fugro has operated simultaneous topographic and bathymetric Lidar systems in France, Japan, New Zealand and the Middle East. Successful results from Japanese coastal areas include returns from the Fugro LADS Mk3 sensor to 50 metres whilst recent surveys in Saudi Arabia had even more impressive results, with 65 metre depth returns. The deep water returns combined with high density shallow water and near coastal returns result in a seamless dataset from ridge to deep reef.
