Lidar Data from the cloud: The USGS 3D Elevation Program (3DEP) has announced the availability of a new way to access and process lidar point cloud data from the 3DEP repository. The USGS has been refining new mechanisms to access 3DEP data beyond simple downloads. With 3DEP’s adoption of cloud storage and computing, users now have the option to work with massive lidar point cloud datasets without having to download them to local machines.
3DEP has been acquiring three-dimensional information across the U.S. using light detection and ranging (lidar) technology- an airborne laser-based remote sensing technology that collects billions of lidar returns while flying- and making results available to the public. https://go.usa.gov/xENmm