Lidar

Lidar is a tool that helps people see things really clearly, just like a superhero might be able to see through walls or buildings. It works by using a laser to send out a beam of light, and then measuring how long it takes for that light to bounce back after it hits something.

Imagine playing catch with a ball. You throw the ball, and it goes to your friend. If your friend throws the ball back at you, you can quickly catch it because you see it coming back to you. That's kind of like how lidar works. The laser beam goes out and hits something, and then bounces back to the lidar instrument which can record how long it took for the light to return. Based on this information, lidar can tell you how far away the thing is, and even create a 3D map of what it looks like.

Lidar is really useful in lots of different ways. For example, scientists and engineers use it to measure things like the height of trees, the depth of oceans, or the shape of the land. Archaeologists use it to find hidden ruins underground. Self-driving cars use it to see obstacles and drive safely. Basically, lidar helps people see better and understand the world around us.