Optimizing ground return detection through forest canopies with small footprint airborne mapping LiDAR

The capability of airborne LiDAR scanners (ALS) to record returns from the ground surface and other targets occluded by forest canopies has been of great value for geosciences and military operations. In this paper we present preliminary results from efforts aimed to characterize different types of forest canopies and to assess the quantity and quality of potential ground returns obtained through different configurations of small footprint airborne mapping LiDAR systems. The final goal of this work is to provide a methodology that allows for the quantification of the “openness” of a forest canopy and procedures to determine the best configuration of ALS systems that ensures maximum detection of ground returns independent of the many different system designs currently available.