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Why Aerial LiDAR is the Go-To Solution for Challenging Terrain — Backed by Real Results.

Written by AllTerra Central, Inc. | Jul 1, 2025 10:03:00 PM

Surveying in rugged terrain is never easy. Whether it’s steep banks, dense vegetation, active mines, or remote corridors, traditional surveying methods often fall short—putting crews at risk, delaying timelines, and inflating costs. That’s why AllTerra Central is taking a deeper look into how professionals across the country are turning to drone-based LiDAR solutions from GeoCue to overcome these challenges. Drawing from real-world case studies, the value of aerial LiDAR is clear: it’s faster, safer, and more precise than ever before.

The Aerial LiDAR Advantage

The latest case studies from GeoCue showcase how drone-mounted LiDAR sensors like the TrueView series are transforming workflows across surveying, engineering, mining, and construction.

Here’s what sets aerial LiDAR apart:

1. Access the Inaccessible

Aerial LiDAR systems allow you to scan steep slopes, dense tree canopies, river crossings, and industrial sites without setting foot on the ground.

Safer for crews

No need for shutdowns or special access

Ideal for remote or hazardous environments

2. Penetrate Vegetation with Precision

Unlike photogrammetry, which struggles under tree cover, LiDAR cuts through foliage to capture true ground surfaces—crucial for terrain modeling, volume calculations, and design work.

See through dense canopy

Create clean digital terrain models (DTMs)

Improve design accuracy in forested areas

3. Get Results Faster

In multiple projects, crews using drone LiDAR completed full surveys in a single day—compared to weeks using traditional methods.

Rapid data collection

Streamlined processing with LP360 software

Faster delivery of contours, orthos, and models

4. Survey Without Stopping Operations

In mining and industrial zones, stopping operations for a survey means lost revenue. Aerial LiDAR lets teams fly and scan without disrupting active work.

Keep operations running

Work around schedules

Reduce on-site exposure for personnel

5. High Accuracy, Even in Vertical Terrain

Modern LiDAR sensors like the TrueView 515 or 655 produce high-density point clouds with the vertical and horizontal precision needed for engineering-grade deliverables—even in sloped or vertical terrain.

True ground elevations

Reliable break-lines and contours

Accurate volume and change calculations

Powered by GeoCue. Delivered by AllTerra Central.

AllTerra Central proudly partners with GeoCue to bring cutting-edge aerial LiDAR solutions—including TrueView sensors and LP360 software—to professionals across Texas and the Southwest.

With expert support from Chris Mauldin, AllTerra helps organizations:

✓ Choose the right sensor for the job
✓ Set up and fly with confidence
✓ Process and analyze data using LP360
✓ Maximize ROI with training and consulting

 

Meet Some of the TruView LiDAR + Imagery Series:

 

Both models deliver professional-grade aerial 3D LiDAR + Imagery capabilities.

Click here to view more models, options, or to learn more

Final Thought: It's Not Just About Flying—It's About Solving

Aerial LiDAR isn’t a niche solution anymore—it’s a practical, proven tool for real-world problems. Whether you're working in surveying, forestry, infrastructure, mining, or environmental management, the technology is ready. And so are we.

AllTerra Central. Your trusted LiDAR partner for the toughest jobs.

AllTerra Central: Transforming complex geospatial challenges into simple, powerful solutions.