The Influence of Surface Type on the Accuracy of Digital Terrain Models Derived from Airborne Laser Scanning Data (Using LiAir V70 as a Case Study)

Abstract

The study is devoted to assessing the accuracy and feasibility of using airborne laser scanning (ALS) for large-scale topographic surveys in Ukraine. The main focus is placed on testing the LiAir V70 system and analyzing its effectiveness in generating point cloud data, which serves as a fundamental source of information for the construction of digital terrain models and subsequent geospatial analysis. The methodological framework included reconnaissance of the study area, establishment of a control geodetic network using GNSS and electronic tacheometry, ALS data acquisition, point cloud generation, as well as their classification and filtering within the TerraScan software environment. Independent accuracy assessment was carried out based on four control polygons representing different surface types: vegetation, road infrastructure, urbanized areas, and forested territories. The results demonstrated that the constructed digital terrain model and the generated contours meet the requirements for topographic mapping at scales ranging from 1:500 to 1:5,000. The LiAir V70 system, combined with LiGeoreference and TERRASOLID software packages, proved to be highly effective in creating accurate and detailed vector models of topographic objects. Thus, the findings confirm the promising potential of airborne laser scanning technologies for operational topographic mapping, terrain change monitoring, and spatial planning applications.