Scan Density Methane
Scan density (methane) refers to how much data is collected across a target area during LiDAR data collection, including for methane detection using LiDAR sensors. In methane detection using aerial LiDAR sensors, higher scan density means more measurement points per square meter, resulting in higher-resolution data, more accurate leak localization, and better quantification of emissions.
Bridger Photonics' Gas Mapping LiDAR® (GML) system is engineered for high scan density to ensure precise, site-level emissions mapping.
Why Scan Density (Methane) Matters
Scan density (methane) directly influences the quality of LiDAR-based methane detection data. More dense scans enable:
- Higher resolution plume imagery
- More accurate pinpointing of leak sources
- Better differentiation between nearby leaks or overlapping plumes
In oil and gas operations, this level of precision supports everything from compliance reporting to efficient repair planning and defensible ESG performance tracking.
High scan density is especially valuable in areas with tightly packed infrastructure, challenging terrain, or anywhere coarse or low-resolution scans might miss or misinterpret key details.
How Scan Density (Methane) Works (Brief Technical)
Scans that are high density produce sharp, detailed plume images and highly precise emissions data.
Scan density (methane) depends on a combination of sensor design, aircraft speed, altitude, and flight path planning. In a high-density scan:
- The aircraft flies using specific parameters
- The sensor collects methane measurements at high frequency
- Data points are spaced closely together
- Advanced processing converts dense data into a clear, geo-referenced methane plume maps
Bridger’s GML is built to maximize scan density without sacrificing coverage area or flight efficiency, enabling both wide-area scans and high-detail outputs.
Key Applications in Oil and Gas
- Precise leak localization for repair crews
- Differentiating overlapping or adjacent leaks
- Verifying repairs with high-resolution re-scans
- Supporting compliance with high-accuracy regulatory standards
- Strengthening audit readiness and ESG disclosures
Related: Gas Mapping LiDAR™, Aerial Methane Detection, Localization, Methane Quantification
FAQs
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What’s a “good” scan density for methane detection?
That depends on the application, but high-performing systems like Bridger’s deliver millions of measurements per flight. This enables leak localization accuracy within approximately two meters, which is critical for streamlining repairs and regulatory documentation.
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Why does scan density matter for methane gas detection?
Similar to other applications of LiDAR, a higher scan density results in higher resolution data. High scan density improves the clarity of plume images, helps distinguish nearby leaks, and ensures the leak is traced to the correct source—critical for effective repair and compliance.
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Does higher scan density slow down data collection?
Not with the right system. Bridger’s GML is optimized to maintain high scan density without reducing flight speed or survey area, delivering both speed and precision at scale.
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