Glossary

Scan Density Methane

Written by Bridger Photonics Team | Sep 9, 2025 1:03:05 PM

 

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

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