Mineral Exploration
Different mineral types, as well as subtle compositional variations can be mapped using satellite and airborne data.
Infoterra analyse and process multispectral and hyperspectral data for hydrothermal alteration systems. This data is processed to derive detailed mineral abundance maps for large regions. In addition, spectral analysis of foiled samples, using hand-held spectrometers, is undertaken to validate satellite-based studies.
Infoterra’s team of geologists enable the most structurally complex deposits to be studied.
Example - Cuprite, West-Central Nevada
Using Remote Sensing for Mineral Exploration
The latest developments in satellite sensor technology allow us to produce mineral maps with five or six categories.
We have developed processing routines that allow us to map a range of minerals, including
- Iron Oxides
- Calcite
- Silica
- Kaolinite
- Alunite
Sophisticated processing allows the slightest spectral difference to be identified in the data, allowing not only different mineral types, but also subtle compositional variations to be mapped as well.
In addition to basic satellite derived mineral maps, we have in-house expertise in processing airborne hyperspectral data for mineral exploration purposes. We are able to plan and acquire airborne hyperspectral data, covering the visible to shortwave infrared wavelengths at sub-5m resolution. This data can then be processed to derive detailed mineral abundancy maps for large regions.
We have skilled spectral geologists who can process both airborne hyperspectral data and ground based handheld spectral measurements using our PIMA SP spectrometer. Airborne hyperspectral data can be used within the geological context for a wide range of applications from mineral exploration targeting through to environmental base line mapping or for routine site remediation monitoring. In addition field spectral measurements can be made using the PIMA. These spectral measurements can be used either to validate airborne hyperspectral responses or they can be used in their own right for spectral mapping.
Using the PIMA to rapidly measure spectra from outcrop, drill core, chippings or hand samples allows spectral variations associated with zones of mineralisation to be mapped.