Radiation mapping for assessing radioactive contamination distribution and mobility
In areas near Fukushima, Japan, Bristol University used a Kromek GR1 CZT-based Gamma Spectrometer to map the levels of radioactive contamination.
This was one of the first times the GR1 was used on a flying drone to provide a radiation map of the area that could then be superimposed over the 3D terrain map produced by the LiDAR system on the drone.
What’s the LiDAR system I hear you ask?
LiDAR is a remote sensing technology which uses the pulse from a laser to collect measurements which can then be used to create 3D models and maps of objects and environments.
LiDAR works like radar but uses a laser beam which bounces off objects or the ground (rather than a radio wave used in radar). The system calculates how long it takes for the light to hit an object or surface and reflect back to the scanner. The 3D visualization produced is called a point cloud.
