[en] The application of 180⁰ scattering using ultrashort laser pulses is proposed. Spatial resolution along the laser beam is achieved by high-speed detection allowing time-of-flight measurements. This LIDAR technique uses a minimum number of window ports, reduces drastically the number of optical components in the vicinity of the discharge vessel and makes remote control unnecessary. As an example the performance of such a system is discussed on the basis of available laser and detection technology for the JET geometry. (orig.)