ABSTRACT Doppler lidar is a powerful remote sensing technology capable of measuring wind profiles, turbulence, and aerosol distributions at high temporal (seconds to minutes) and spatial (10–100 m) resolution. This review explores the development and key applications of Doppler lidar in meteorology, aviation, environmental science, and renewable energy. We find that Doppler lidar enhances numerical weather prediction by providing accurate boundary layer wind data, which improves tropical cyclone (TC) prediction and contributes to the analysis of aerosol transport and cloud processes. In the energy sector, Doppler lidar improves wind assessments for wind farm siting and turbine optimization, capturing wake effects with deficits exceeding 60% near turbines and offering spatial coverage of several kilometers. Floating Doppler lidar systems provide cost‐effective and relocatable solutions for offshore deployment, reducing operation costs by over 50% compared to fixed meteorological towers. In aviation, Doppler lidar supports early detection of wind shear and turbulence near airports and contributes to safer flight operations. Recent spaceborne Doppler lidar missions have demonstrated the feasibility of global wind profile observations, opening new pathways for climate research and atmospheric monitoring. Overall, Doppler lidar plays a crucial role in advancing weather forecasting, climate science, aviation safety, and the transition toward sustainable energy systems.
Nayak et al. (2026) studied this question.