<ul data-eligibleForWebStory="true">Growing up with '2001: A Space Odyssey' sparked childhood imagination and interest in space exploration.LiDAR technology, initially used in the Apollo 15 mission, revolutionized the mapping of the Moon's surface.Elon Musk's views on LiDAR for self-driving cars impact its application in technological advancements.LiDAR technology is instrumental in archaeology, uncovering lost ancient cities like La Ciudad Blanca in Honduras and Valeriana in Mexico.LiDAR surveys have revealed ancient urban centers in the Amazon rainforest, dating back nearly 3,000 years.The future of LiDAR lies in practical applications on Earth, such as autonomous vehicles and robotics.LiDAR's potential extends to tracking people in various settings and enhancing surveillance systems.Despite differences in tech preferences, LiDAR continues to offer innovative solutions for diverse industries.LiDAR's impact transcends space exploration, offering valuable insights into Earth's hidden historical and natural wonders.LiDAR technology's evolution showcases its invaluable role in preserving ancient civilizations and enhancing modern-day innovations.