Red vs Infrared: comparing 900nm and 1550nm lidar performance in arctic winter conditions

We present here the results of a data collection campaign involving a 1550nm and 900nm lidar operating in severe winter weather conditions. Data for both lidars was collected simultaneously during arctic-like conditions where fine snow or ice particles are often suspended in the air severely reducing visibility. In this work we qualitatively and quantitatively compare the performance of these lidars. Performance is compared with respect to clutter noise from scattering, object detection in the presence of snow. We find the 1550 nm lidar is more likely to detect snow, resulting in increased clutter noise.