Statistical analysis of the potential of a bathymetric lidar with time-of-flight SPAD matrix photodetector

The Monte Carlo method is used to solve the nonstationary laser sensing equation in a multicomponent optically dense water medium taking into account the influence of “water-air” interface, the contribution of multiple radiation scattering by sea water, and the signal reflection from the sea bottom. Dependences of signals of a monostatic lidar equipped with a time-of-flight matrix photodetector (SPAD) on the water depth and surface microwaves for different field-of-view angles of the receiver are obtained. Results of invesigaions have shown that the maximum achievable depth of sea bottom detection is 40-50 m given that the optical water thickness does not exceed 3.5-4 m. The dynamic range of lidar signals from water reaches 7-9 orders of magnitude for lidar sensing of sea bottom to limiting depths of 40-50 m in very transparent water in the presence of Fresnel reflection from the water surface. Results of statistical simulation have shown that the lidar system with the matrix detector for sea water sensing can be realized at the modern technological level. The lidar return signal power under favorable conditions provides sensing of sea water to depth of 40-50 m.

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