3D computer models could be used to assess new wind farm schemes

Paul Boughton
A highly accurate 3D map of Britain is being made available online by aerial mapping company Bluesky. Created using data from aircraft mounted lasers that transmit light pulses that bounce off the earth’s surface the 3D map covers most of England and Wales, including all major towns and floodplains.
 
This technology has until now been used for environmental monitoring, especially flood mapping and engineering projects such as new road construction. Available online at www.bluesky-world.com, the 3D map complements aerial photomaps and other aerial survey data that are already available to purchase by simply entering a place name or postcode.
 
In order to capture highly accurate LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) data a survey aircraft equipped with a system of lasers is used. Lasers are transmitted to the ground and the time taken for the beam to be bounced back to the aircraft-mounted receivers is recorded. Using the known position of the aircraft (derived from on-board satellite positioning equipment), the time taken for the return of the laser beam and the known value of the speed of light, the distance between the aircraft and ground is calculated. Readings can also be taken to determine the height of buildings, vegetation and other surface structures such as above ground pipelines, highways, street furniture, power lines and railway tracks.
 
“By combining data from many sources, including our own archive, we have created what appears to be the most easily accessible and comprehensive online coverage of LiDAR data,” commented Rachel Tidmarsh, Managing Director of Bluesky. “Through a mix of value added and traditional reseller agreements we can supply off the shelf data or work with clients to derive a customised solution for their specific project requirements.”
 
Available online, in a range of formats suitable for use in Geographical Information System (GIS), Computer Aided Design (CAD) or 3D visualisation software the LiDAR data is designed for applications that require an accurate real world representation of the earth’s surface and the vegetation and buildings that cover it. From simple identification of ground surface features to more complex projects including flood risk assessment and mobile network planning, the data is offered free of Crown Copyright with flexible licensing terms.        
 
“LiDAR has until now been a high-end solution; delivering very accurate measurements, usually for small projects areas, with a price tag you would expect,” continued Tidmarsh. “By launching the data online we are able to provide wider access to existing data encouraging more diverse applications.”   

For more information, www.bluesky-world.com