Aerial LiDAR course
About our
The Aerial LiDAR Course focuses on learning the techniques and technologies related to LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) used from aerial platforms. It covers the acquisition, processing, and analysis of LiDAR data for the creation of accurate 3D models of terrain and objects. Participants will learn about flight planning, sensor calibration, point cloud processing, and applications in areas such as surveying, geology, forestry, and urban planning. The course provides skills in using specialized software for noise filtering, point classification, and the generation of digital elevation models (DEMs) and digital surface models (DSMs). Emphasis is placed on practical application through exercises and projects, enabling students to master the complete airborne LiDAR workflow, from planning to generating final products. The course prepares professionals to work in the remote sensing and mapping industry.
Aerial LiDAR course
- Format: Hybrid
- Duration: 3 months
- Hours: 300 H
- Language: English / Spanish
- Registration date: 23-10-2026
- Start date: 12-12-2026
- Available places: 3
299 $
Competencies and results
What you will learn
1. Mastery of Aerial LiDAR Surveying: Capture, Processing, and Precise Geospatial Analysis
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Proficiency in planning and executing airborne LiDAR surveys, including equipment selection and defining optimal flight parameters for high-precision data capture.
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Comprehensive LiDAR data processing, encompassing geometric correction, noise filtering, point classification, and the generation of digital elevation models (DEMs) and digital terrain models (DTMs).
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Advanced geospatial analysis of LiDAR data, using specialized software for extracting key information, such as creating elevation maps, 3D modeling of objects, and detecting changes in the terrain.
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Practical application of LiDAR data in diverse disciplines, including cartography, natural resource management, urban planning, archaeology, and civil engineering, demonstrating its versatility and strategic value.
- In-depth understanding of the principles of aerial photogrammetry and its integration with LiDAR data to improve the accuracy and richness of geospatial information.
2. Modeling, Simulation and Optimization of Aerial Rotor Performance
- Delve into the analysis of the complex dynamics of aircraft rotors, including the study of flap-lag-torsion couplings, fundamental to understanding their structural behavior.
- Evaluate rotor stability, addressing critical phenomena such as whirl flutter, to ensure the safety and efficiency of the design.
- Understand and mitigate the effects of fatigue on materials, which involves fatigue analysis and the application of design strategies to extend the service life of components.
- Master component dimensioning techniques using advanced composite materials, including numerical simulation using the finite element (FE) method to optimize the design.
- Learn to design and analyze structural and bonded joints, applying FEA to evaluate their strength and durability.
- Implement damage tolerance methodologies, which allow for the evaluation of a component’s capacity to withstand damage and failure, and to mitigate their effects.
- Become familiar with non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques, such as UT (ultrasound), RT (radiography), and thermography, to inspect and evaluate the integrity of components without damaging them.
3. Comprehensive user-oriented design and validation (from modeling to manufacturing)
You will learn to integrate the entire product development process, from initial model conception to final validation, applying user-centered methodologies. You will develop skills in parametric design, ergonomics, simulation, sustainable materials, 3D visualization, and manufacturing management, ensuring efficient, safe solutions that meet current industry standards.
4. Aerial LiDAR Analysis: From Flight to the Creation of Detailed 3D Digital Models
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LiDAR Technology Fundamentals: Operating principles, components, and types of airborne LiDAR systems.
LiDAR Flight Planning and Execution: Mission design, flight parameters, safety considerations, and LiDAR data acquisition.
LiDAR Data Processing: Geometric correction, noise filtering, point classification, and point cloud generation.
Digital Terrain Modeling (DTM) and Digital Elevation Modeling (DEM): Creation of 3D terrain and surface models using LiDAR data.
Information Extraction: Identification and classification of objects (buildings, vegetation, infrastructure), surface analysis, and volume calculation.
Applications of Airborne LiDAR: Use of LiDAR data in mapping, urban 3D modeling, forest management, archaeology, environmental monitoring, and risk analysis.
LiDAR Software and Tools: Familiarization with specialized software for processing, analyzing, and visualizing LiDAR data.
Visualization and Presentation of Results: Generation of detailed 3D models, elevation maps, profiles, and other cartographic products.
5. Mastery of Airborne LiDAR: Comprehensive Workflow, from Capture to Generation of Derivative Products
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Fundamentals of Airborne LiDAR: Understand the basic principles of LiDAR technology, including its operation, components, and applications in mapping and 3D model generation.
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LiDAR Flight Planning: Learn to plan LiDAR flight missions, including defining study areas, selecting flight parameters, and considering factors such as desired resolution and accuracy.
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LiDAR Data Acquisition: Become familiar with LiDAR data acquisition systems, including sensor handling, equipment calibration, and field data acquisition.
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LiDAR Data Processing: Master LiDAR data processing techniques, including geometric correction, point classification, and noise filtering to obtain accurate and clean point clouds.
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LiDAR Data Processing:
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Generation of Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) and Digital Surface Models (DSMs): Learn to generate digital elevation models (DEMs) and digital surface models (DSMs) from LiDAR data, using specialized software and interpolation techniques.
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Generation of Orthoimages: Create orthoimages from LiDAR data, combining elevation information with color information from aerial images to obtain visually accurate and georeferenced representations of the terrain.
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Feature Extraction and Data Analysis: Extract relevant features from the terrain and objects present in the environment, such as buildings, vegetation, and bodies of water, and perform spatial analysis to obtain valuable information for decision-making.
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Applications of Airborne LiDAR: Explore the diverse applications of airborne LiDAR in different sectors, such as mapping, natural resource management, urban planning, precision agriculture, and archaeology.
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LiDAR Software and Tools: Become familiar with the software and tools used in LiDAR data processing and analysis, including the use of point cloud processing software, GIS software, and visualization tools.
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Trends and Future of Airborne LiDAR: Learn about current trends and future prospects in LiDAR technology, including the development of new sensors, integration with other technologies, and emerging new applications.
6. Rotor Modeling and Simulation: Performance Optimization and Aerodynamic Analysis
6. Rotor Modeling and Simulation: Performance Optimization and Aerodynamic Analysis
- Design and analyze joints and bonded joints (adhesive joints) using finite element (FE) analysis, ensuring the integrity of the structure.
Sizing laminates in composites, optimizing the strength and weight of the blades.
Implement methodologies for evaluating and managing structural integrity:
Apply the concept of damage tolerance, evaluating the structure’s capacity to withstand damage and failure.
Use non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques, such as ultrasonic testing (UT), radiography (RT), and thermography, to detect defects and evaluate the rotor’s condition.
Who this program is for:
Aerial LiDAR course
- Graduates in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Automation Engineering, or related fields.
- Professionals in OEM rotorcraft/eVTOL, MRO, consulting, and technology centers.
- Flight Testing, certification, avionics, control, and dynamics seeking specialization.
- Regulators/authorities and UAM/eVTOL professionals requiring compliance skills.
Recommended requirements: foundation in aerodynamics and control and structures; ES/EN B2+/C1. We offer bridging tracks if you need them.
- Standards-driven curriculum: you will work with CS-27/CS-29, DO-160, DO-178C/DO-254, ARP4754A/ARP4761, ADS-33E-PRF from the first module.
- Accreditable laboratories (EN ISO/IEC 17025) with rotor bench, EMC/Lightning pre-compliance, HIL/SIL, vibrations/acoustics.
- Evidence-oriented TFM: safety case, test plan, compliance dossierand operational limits.
- Mentored by industry: teachers with experience in rotorcraft, tiltrotor, eVTOL/UAM and flight test.
- Flexible modality (hybrid/online), international cohorts and support from SEIUM Career Services.
- Ethics and security: safety-by-design approach, cyber-OT, DIH and compliance as pillars.
1.1 Principles of Airborne LiDAR: Fundamentals and Operation
1.2 LiDAR Systems: Components and Technologies
1.3 LiDAR Flight Planning: Design and Considerations
1.4 LiDAR Data Capture: Acquisition and Quality Control
1.5 LiDAR Data Processing: Filtering and Noise Removal
1.6 Geospatial Analysis with LiDAR Data: Classification and Feature Extraction
1.7 LiDAR Software: Tools and Workflows
1.8 Applications of Airborne LiDAR: Case Studies
1.9 Digital Terrain Modeling (DTM) and Digital Surface Modeling (DSM): Creation and Applications
1.10 Accuracy and Precision in LiDAR Data: Evaluation and Control
2.2 Airborne LiDAR Data Acquisition: Flight Planning and Execution
2.2 LiDAR Systems: Types and Components
2.3 LiDAR System Calibration: Precision and Accuracy
2.4 Factors Influencing Acquisition: Weather, Terrain, and Vegetation
2.5 LiDAR Sensor Parameter Configuration
2.6 Direct and Indirect Georeferencing
2.7 LiDAR Data Quality Assessment
2.8 Software and Tools for Acquisition and Calibration
2.2 Principles of Rotor Aerodynamics
2.2 CFD Modeling for Rotor Simulation
2.3 Rotor Design Optimization: Efficiency and Noise
2.4 Rotor Flight Simulation: Stability and Control
2.5 Performance Analysis: Thrust, Power, and Consumption
2.6 Rotor Blade Design: Shapes and Profiles 2.7 Rotor Materials and Manufacturing
2.8 Simulation and Analysis Software
3.2 Integration of LiDAR Data with Other Geospatial Sources
3.2 Applications in Mapping and 3D Terrain Modeling
3.3 Object Detection and Classification: Buildings, Vegetation, etc.
3.4 Applications in Precision Agriculture and Forest Management
3.5 Infrastructure Monitoring: Power Lines, Bridges, etc.
3.6 Applications in Archaeology and Cultural Heritage
3.7 Integration with Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
3.8 Case Studies of Advanced Applications
4.2 LiDAR Data Processing: Filtering and Classification
4.2 Generation of Digital Terrain Models (DTMs) and Digital Surface Models (DSMs)
4.3 Creation of Detailed 3D Models: Point Clouds and Meshes 4.4 Data Analysis: elevations, slopes, profiles, etc.
4.5 3D Spatial Visualization and Analysis
4.6 Feature Extraction: buildings, trees, etc.
4.7 Software Tools for 3D Analysis and Modeling
4.8 Interpretation and Presentation of Results
5.2 LiDAR Flight Planning: design and execution
5.2 Data Acquisition: capture and storage
5.3 Data Processing: filtering, classification, and georeferencing
5.4 Generation of Digital Models: DEM, DSM, point clouds
5.5 Creation of Derived Products: contour lines, orthomosaics, etc.
5.6 Data and Product Quality Analysis
5.7 Automated Workflow
5.8 Documentation and Reporting of Results
6.2 Principles of Rotor Aerodynamics 6.2 Rotor performance analysis: thrust, power, and efficiency.
6.3 Aerodynamic modeling: blade element theory.
6.4 Numerical simulation: CFD and BEM.
6.5 Rotor design: airfoil and geometry selection.
6.6 Design optimization for improved performance.
6.7 Rotor stability and control analysis.
6.8 Noise and vibration analysis.
7.2 Advanced LiDAR data processing: filtering and classification.
7.2 Generation of digital terrain and surface models.
7.3 Creation of detailed 3D models: point clouds and meshes.
7.4 Texturing of 3D models: photogrammetry and realistic textures.
7.5 Analysis of model accuracy and precision.
7.6 Visualization and presentation of high-resolution 3D models. 7.7 Applications in various sectors: construction, urban planning, etc.
7.8 Software and tools for high-precision 3D modeling.
8.2 Advanced LiDAR data processing: filtering techniques.
8.2 Generation of digital terrain and surface models.
8.3 Object classification: detection of buildings, vegetation, etc.
8.4 Generation of orthomosaics and 3D maps.
8.5 Data analysis: slopes, elevations, areas, volumes.
8.6 Creation of thematic maps: cover, changes, etc.
8.7 Software and tools for processing and analysis.
8.8 Presentation and visualization of high-resolution 3D maps.
3.3 Fundamentals of Airborne LiDAR Integration: Principles and Technologies
3.2 LiDAR Data Acquisition: Flight Planning and Parameters
3.3 LiDAR Calibration: Georeferencing and Adjustments
3.4 Initial LiDAR Data Processing: Filtering and Noise Removal
3.5 Point Cloud Generation: Structure and Formats
3.6 LiDAR Applications in Surveying and Mapping
3.7 LiDAR Applications in 3D Modeling and Terrain Analysis
3.8 LiDAR Applications in Agriculture and Forestry Management
3.9 LiDAR Applications in Urban Planning
3.30 Case Studies: Advanced Applications and Future Trends
4.4 Acquisition and Calibration of Airborne LiDAR Data: Fundamentals and Techniques
4.2 Processing of Airborne LiDAR Data: Filtering and Noise Reduction
4.3 Digital Terrain Modeling (DTM) and Digital Surface Modeling (DSM): Creation and Analysis
4.4 Generation of 3D Point Clouds: Structure and Visualization
4.5 Feature Extraction: Buildings, Vegetation, and Infrastructure
4.6 Elevation and Slope Analysis: Applications in Geomorphology
4.7 Classification of LiDAR Points: Segmentation and Categorization
4.8 Generation of Orthophotos from LiDAR Data: Integration with Images
4.9 Measurement of Volumes and Areas: Applications in Mining and Construction
4.40 Advanced Applications: Change Analysis and Detailed 3D Modeling
5.5 Introduction to Airborne LiDAR: Principles and Operation
5.5 Airborne LiDAR Systems: Components and Configuration
5.3 Flight Planning and LiDAR Data Acquisition
5.4 LiDAR System Calibration: Methods and Techniques
5.5 LiDAR Data Quality Control: Evaluation and Validation
5.6 Software and Tools for Initial Processing
5.7 LiDAR Data Georeferencing: Adjustments and Corrections
5.8 Practical Examples of LiDAR Capture and Calibration
5.9 Best Practices in Airborne LiDAR Data Capture
5.50 Challenges and Solutions in Airborne LiDAR Capture
5.5 Fundamentals of Rotor Modeling: Momentum Theory
5.5 CFD Modeling for Rotors: Simulation and Analysis
5.3 Aerodynamic Design of Rotor Blades: Profiles and Geometry
5.4 Rotor Performance Optimization: Methods and Techniques
5.5 Airflow Simulation: Wakes and Vortices
5.6 Structural Analysis of Rotors: Materials and Strength
5.7 Dynamic Modeling of Rotors: Vibrations and Stability
5.8 Rotor Simulation Tools: Software and Applications
5.9 Rotor Optimization Examples: Case Studies
5.50 Innovations in Rotor Design and Modeling
3.5 Integration of LiDAR with Other Geospatial Technologies
3.5 Applications in Cartography and Surveying
3.3 Applications in Natural Resource Management
3.4 Applications in Precision Agriculture
3.5 Applications in Urban Planning and Land Management
3.6 Applications in Infrastructure Inspection
3.7 Integration of LiDAR Data into Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
3.8 Spatial Analysis Advanced LiDAR Data
3.9 Developing Specific Applications with LiDAR
3.50 Future Trends in LiDAR Integration and Applications
4.5 From Flight to Point Cloud: Data Processing
4.5 Generating Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) and Digital Surface Models (DSMs)
4.3 Generating 3D Models of Buildings and Objects
4.4 Classifying LiDAR Points: Terrain, Vegetation, Buildings
4.5 Extracting Geometric Features
4.6 Terrain Analysis and Flow Modeling
4.7 3D Visualization and Analysis of LiDAR Data
4.8 Applications of 3D Models in Different Industries
4.9 Software Tools for 3D LiDAR Modeling
4.50 Challenges and Solutions in Creating Detailed 3D Models
5.5 Planning LiDAR Workflow: From Capture
5.5 LiDAR Data Processing: Software and Typical Workflows
5.3 Noise Removal and Data Filtering
5.4 Point Classification: Techniques and Algorithms
5.5 Generation of Digital Elevation Models (DEMs)
5.6 Generation of Digital Surface Models (DSMs)
5.7 Creation of Orthoimages and Mosaics
5.8 Generation of Derived Products: Contour Lines, etc.
5.9 Quality Control and Accuracy Assurance
5.50 LiDAR Workflow Automation
6.5 Fundamentals of Rotor Aerodynamics
6.5 Rotor Modeling: Theory and Numerical Methods
6.3 Airflow Simulation Around the Rotor
6.4 Blade Design Optimization: Geometry and Profiles
6.5 Rotor Performance Analysis: Thrust, Power, Efficiency
6.6 Stability and Control Studies
6.7 Rotor Vibration and Dynamics Analysis
6.8 Software and Tools for Rotor Simulation
6.9 Design of Flight Control Systems for Helicopters
6.50 Practical Cases of Rotor Performance Optimization
7.5 Advanced LiDAR Data Processing: Filtering and Cleaning
7.5 Point Classification: Algorithms and Techniques
7.3 Generation of Accurate Digital Terrain Models (DTMs)
7.4 Generation of High-Resolution 3D Models
7.5 Feature Extraction: Buildings, Vegetation, etc.
7.6 Advanced Spatial Analysis: Volumes, Areas, Distances
7.7 Visualization and Presentation of High-Precision 3D Models
7.8 Software and Tools for Advanced 3D Modeling
7.9 Case Studies: Applications of High-Precision 3D Models
7.50 Trends in LiDAR 3D Modeling
8.5 LiDAR Data Processing: Introduction and Fundamentals
8.5 Filtering and Noise Removal Techniques
8.3 Generation of High-Resolution DEMs/DSMs
8.4 3D Map Creation: Modeling and Texturing
8.5 LiDAR Data Analysis for Map Generation
8.6 Applications in Urban Planning and Land Management
8.7 Applications in Natural Resource Management
8.8 Software and Tools for 3D Map Generation
8.9 Studies of Case Study: High-Resolution 3D Maps
8.50 Challenges and Future of LiDAR 3D Maps
6.6 Fundamentals of Rotor Simulation: Principles and Applications
6.2 Aerodynamic Modeling of Rotors: Theories and Numerical Methods
6.3 Airflow Simulation: CFD and BEM
6.4 Rotor Performance Analysis: Thrust, Power, and Efficiency
6.5 Rotor Design Optimization: Parameter Selection
6.6 Flight Scenario Simulation: Transient and Steady-State
6.7 Structural Analysis of Rotors: Load and Deformation
6.8 Design Optimization for Noise Reduction
6.9 Integrating Simulation into the Design Process
6.60 Case Studies: Rotor Performance Optimization
- Hands-on methodology: test-before-you-trust, design reviews, failure analysis, compliance evidence.
- Software (depending on licenses/partners): MATLAB/Simulink, Python (NumPy/SciPy), OpenVSP, SU2/OpenFOAM, Nastran/Abaqus, AMESim/Modelica, acoustics tools, planning toolchains DO-178C.
- SEIUM Laboratories: scale rotor bench, vibrations/acoustics, EMC/Lightning pre-compliance, HIL/SIL for AFCS, data acquisition with strain gauging.
- Standards and compliance: EN 9100, 17025, ISO 27001, GDPR.
Capstone-type projects
Admissions, fees, and scholarships
- Profile: Background in Computer Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, or related fields; practical experience in NLP and valued information retrieval systems.
- Documentation: Updated CV, academic transcript, SOP/statement of purpose, project examples or code (optional).
- Process: Application → Technical evaluation of profile and experience → Technical interview → Review of case studies → Final decision → Enrollment.
- Fees:
- Single payment: 10% discount.
- Payment in 3 installments: No fees; 30% upon registration + 2 equal monthly payments of the remaining 35%.
Monthly payment: available with a 7% commission on the total; annual review.
Scholarships: based on academic merit, financial need, and promoting inclusion; agreements with companies in the sector for partial or full scholarships.
See “Calendar & Calls for Applications,” “Scholarships & Grants,” and “Fees & Financing” in the SEIUM mega-menu.
Do you have any questions?
Our team is ready to help you. Contact us, and we will respond as soon as possible.
F. A. Q
Frequently asked questions
Yes, we have international certification
Yes: experimental models, real data, applied simulations, professional environments, real case studies.
It is not mandatory. We offer leveling tracks and tutoring.
Completely. It covers e-propulsion, integration, and emerging regulations (SC-VTOL).
Recommended. There are also internal challenges and consortiums.
Yes. Online/hybrid modality with planned labs and visa support (see “Visa & Residence”).