What is the main difference between active and passive lidar systems?

The main difference between active and passive lidar systems lies in how they interact with light. Active systems are designed to emit their own laser light, which they then use to illuminate the environment. When this emitted light interacts with objects, it reflects back to the system, allowing it to measure distances and gather data about the surroundings. This active emission of light gives these systems greater control over the data they collect, including the ability to function in various lighting conditions.

On the other hand, passive systems do not produce their own light; instead, they rely on detecting external light sources, such as sunlight or other ambient light. This means that passive systems can be limited by environmental conditions and may not perform as well in low-light situations.

The focus on how active lidar systems generate their own laser light while passive systems depend on existing light sources encapsulates the core distinction between the two types of systems. This fundamental understanding is essential for choosing the appropriate lidar system for specific applications, considering factors like environmental conditions and the need for data accuracy.