Drones equipped with LiDAR sensors can be used to create a point cloud and 3D model of the terrain by capturing high-resolution 3D scans of the area. LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensors work by emitting a laser beam and measuring the time it takes for the beam to reflect off objects in the environment. By measuring the time of flight of the laser beam, the LiDAR sensor is able to generate a detailed 3D map of the terrain, including its elevation, slope, and features such as buildings, roads, and vegetation.

The 3D scans captured by the LiDAR sensor can be processed and combined to create a colorized point cloud, which is a set of points in 3D space that represent the shape and elevation of the terrain. The point cloud can be visualized and manipulated using specialized software, allowing users to view the terrain from different angles and to create detailed 3D models of the area.

Drones with LiDAR sensors are often used for applications such as mapping, surveying, and land use planning, as they are able to capture detailed and accurate 3D representations of the terrain quickly and efficiently. In addition to creating point clouds and 3D models, drones with LiDAR sensors can also be used for a variety of other applications, including identifying and mapping the distribution of vegetation, measuring the volume of stockpiles, and inspecting infrastructure such as bridges and pipelines. UAS with LiDAR sensors are a powerful tool for capturing and analyzing the shape and elevation of the terrain.