Paper 14040-1
Paper 14040-1
Fathom: High-resolution topo-bathy lidar for inland and coastal hydrographic applications
29 April 2026 • 8:30 AM - 8:50 AM EDT | Chesapeake 5
Abstract
Fathom is an advanced airborne lidar system designed for high-resolution topographic and bathymetric mapping in inland and coastal environments. It integrates a dual-frequency 60 kHz bathymetric laser and a 1.5 MHz topographic channel, achieving an effective sounding rate of 240 kHz in full waveform mode. Validation flights over lakes and rivers using Canadian Hydrographic Service data demonstrate sub-decimeter vertical coherence, reliable water surface detection, and depth penetration up to 32 meters. The system meets IHO S-44 Order 1a and USACE QL0B standards, confirming its suitability for precise, single-pass mapping in diverse aquatic and terrestrial conditions.
Presenter
Brandon Maingot
Teledyne Optech (United States)
Brandon Maingot is a research scientist at Teledyne Optech and a doctoral candidate at the University of New Hampshire. Originally from Barbados, he studied geomatics and hydrography at the University of the West Indies and received a GEBCO scholarship for graduate study at UNH, supporting ocean mapping research for CCOM. His work focuses on full waveform airborne lidar processing, image processing, multi-sensor fusion, geometric and radiometric calibration for topographic and bathymetric mapping. His PhD research applies similar calibration and processing methods to multibeam echosounder systems. At Teledyne Optech, he supports lidar systems including CZMIL and Fathom, advancing mapping for hydrographic charting, environmental monitoring, and coastal security. By treating acoustics, optics, and imagery as complementary measurements, he aims to view the seafloor through many lenses and provide reliable data products that adapt to changing environments and mission needs.