Applicability of single photon detection for laser radar

We give a brief overview on the implementation of single photon detection for laser radar applications, with a special focus on laser scanners. The current state of the art of single photon detection modules and of potential laser sources is reviewed and the influence of background radiation, dark count rate, and detector dead time is investigated. We come to the conclusion that, although promising in the view of ranging capabilities, the application of single photon detection proves to be critical with respect to achievable net measurement rate, ranging accuracy, and operability during daylight.