Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR)

Light detection and ranging (LIDAR) is a technology that gives a 3-dimensional animation view of a land. It gives an accurate topographical view of an area. The LIDAR taken above is of Manhattan after the 9/11 attacks. These photos helped workers track where the most debris was in order to get the proper equipment to clean up the city.

http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories/s798.htm