How does LIDAR scanner work during underground mining?

Geosight CMS
2 min readJan 30, 2024

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Ever wondered how miners navigate the depths of the Earth’s belly with laser-like precision? Enter the enchanting world of LIDAR scanners, the magical wands of the mining industry. In this blog post, we’ll unravel the mysteries of LIDAR scanners and how they work their spell in underground mining.

LIDAR, or Light Detection and Ranging, is not just a fancy acronym — it’s a game-changer. Picture a laser beam, emitting rapid pulses of light. This invisible force bounces off surfaces and returns as data, creating a detailed 3D map of the surroundings. It’s like creating a digital twin of the underground world, and LIDAR scanners are the spellbinders behind this marvel.

These scanners are not your average flashlights; they emit laser beams at a rapid-fire pace, measuring the time it takes for each pulse to return. The result? A high-resolution point cloud that captures the intricate details of the underground terrain. It’s like giving miners X-ray vision, allowing them to see through rocks and soils.

Now, let’s talk about precision — LIDAR scanners are the maestros of accuracy. They can capture millions of data points per second, leaving no stone unturned (quite literally). This meticulous mapping ensures that miners have a comprehensive understanding of the underground landscape, from the tiniest crevice to the grandest cavern.

Safety is paramount, and LIDAR scanners are the guardian angels of underground miners. By creating detailed maps of the environment, these scanners help identify potential hazards and ensure that miners can navigate through the subterranean labyrinth with confidence.

In the realm of underground mining, where every move counts, LIDAR scanners emerge as the unsung heroes, weaving their magic to illuminate the darkest corners. It’s not just technology; it’s a wizardry that transforms the underground into a realm of safety and precision, one LIDAR pulse at a time.

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