Thematic maps, spectral mapping of rocks and support of exploration, feasibility study and mining from RS data.
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What the service is used for
Mineral exploration
Satellite images and aerial photography (UAV) for preparatory exploration: trails, roads, fences, settlements, access corridors, mineralisation forecast and natural anomalies.
Mapping of outcrops and regolith
Mapping of outcrops, systematics of regolith and vegetation cover in exploration blocks and over regional territories.
Engineering-geological maps
From RS, engineering-geological maps are produced at the agreed scale for geological and mine-surveying work.
Spectral mineralogy
Analysis of surface mineralogy from spectral properties of materials, including hydrothermally altered rocks; litho-mineralogical mapping in UV, multispectral, thermal IR, hyperspectral, radar and microwave ranges.
Feasibility study, mining and land use
Support of the feasibility study and mine design, grade control, selective mining, waste and the land-use stage after mine closure.
Need a block assessment?
Describe the exploration block or quarry. A specialist will select the RS archive and the set of thematic maps.
What you will receive as a result of the work
01
Mineral exploration
Satellite images and aerial photography (UAV) for preparatory exploration: access, anomalies, ore-controlling structures.
Satellite images and aerial photography give geologists and field crews the location of trails, roads, fences and settlements, access corridors to exploration areas and an assessment of a large project's impact on the environment. RS is used to forecast mineralisation and identify natural anomalies.
What you get
- an overview base of the exploration block: roads, fences, settlements and access corridors
- a mineralisation forecast and delineation of natural anomalies and ore-controlling structures
- materials for assessing the environmental impact of the exploration project
The map set and scale are fixed in the terms of reference; archive availability and cloud cover affect survey dates.
02
Geological mapping
Mapping of outcrops, regolith and vegetation cover in exploration blocks and over regional territories.
Geological mapping of outcrops describes the primary lithology and morphology of rock bodies and the age relationships of rocks. This makes it possible to outline ore-bearing host rocks and post-ore rocks that mask or cut the ores. Structural information is collected: veins and post-ore faults to forecast subsurface geology and increase the usefulness of geophysics.
What you get
- maps of outcrops, regolith and vegetation cover of the exploration block
- outlining of ore-bearing host and post-ore rocks
- structural information: veins and post-ore faults to refine subsurface targets
Mapping detail depends on survey resolution, outcrop exposure and vegetation cover.
03
Spectral mapping
Surface litho-mineralogy from the spectral properties of rocks, including hydrothermally altered ones.
Multispectral imaging and thematic mapping collect data on the reflectance and absorption of soils, rocks and vegetation. They are used to interpret surface lithology, clays, oxides and soil types. Ranges: ultraviolet, multispectral, thermal IR, hyperspectral, radar and microwaves, or a combination of these with computer processing.
What you get
- analysis of surface mineralogy and hydrothermally altered rocks
- litho-mineralogical maps for the selected spectral ranges
- geomorphological analysis from RS sensor topography, including with stereo vision
The choice of ranges and sensors depends on rock type, vegetation and archive availability; field verification refines the result.
04
Feasibility study and mine design
RS data at the feasibility-study and design stages: bulk sampling, trial mining, reduction of dilution and losses.
RS accompanies the feasibility-study and mine-design stage, the mining stage (grade control, selective mining, especially at small deposits, further exploration to extend mine life), waste management throughout the life cycle and after mine closure, and the land-use stage.
What you get
- engineering-geological maps at the agreed scale for geological and mine-surveying work
- RS materials for the feasibility study, mine design and grade control during mining
- a basis for waste management and land use after mine closure
The composition of feasibility-study materials and mine-surveying plans is set by the contract; RS does not replace drilling and laboratory analyses.
05
Ecology and quarry monitoring
Vegetation of mine districts, mining ecology, deposition of surface rocks and the link to human activity.
RS is used to study the vegetated regions of mines and extraction sites, the ecology of these districts, monitoring of the deposition of surface rocks and minerals, and the mineralogical link of regolith to the underlying outcrop. The link between the distribution of rocks and minerals and archaeological and modern human activity is mapped. Mapping is validated against existing or newly collected geological information.
What you get
- materials of vegetation and ecology studies of mining districts
- monitoring of the deposition of surface rocks and minerals
- maps of the link between rocks and minerals and human activity, and validation against field data
The monitoring frequency and the set of environmental layers are set by the ToR; cloud cover and season affect optical survey.
How the work goes
Cost and timeline
The cost and timeline of RS work for geology and mining depend on the block area, survey type and map set.
- exploration-block area and stage: reconnaissance, feasibility study, mining or mine closure and land use
- data type: satellite imagery, aerial photography and UAV, multispectral, hyperspectral, thermal IR, radar
- whether archive purchase or a new survey is needed, or the client provides the materials
- product composition: geological and engineering-geological maps, spectral mapping, support of mining and waste
The cost of the work is calculated individually
Timelines depend on the block area, survey type and map set
The final estimate is agreed after the site and product composition are described
What is needed for a quote
To agree the terms of reference for RS for geology and mining, provide:
- the task: mineral exploration, geological mapping, feasibility study and mine design, mining, waste or land use
- the area of interest — coordinates, exploration-block or quarry outline, or SHP file
- the work stage: preliminary exploration, mapping, bulk sampling, mining or mine closure
- whether you have your own images and maps or need archival / new satellite, aerial or UAV survey
- requirements for the scale of engineering-geological and thematic maps, if they are already known
- whether multispectral, hyperspectral, thermal IR, radar or a combination of ranges is needed for litho-mineralogical mapping
If survey parameters have not been set yet, describing the block and the purpose is enough — specialists will propose the RS data composition.
Describe the exploration block or quarry — we will clarify the archive, a new survey and the map set.
Why Innoter
Prompt access to archives
Suitable archive imagery can be obtained faster when the required area and date are already available from operators.
No aviation clearances
A new satellite survey does not require the flight clearances typical of aerial surveys.
Large and remote areas
A single satellite pass covers large areas and makes it possible to work in hard-to-reach regions.
Direct agreements with operators
Distribution agreements help select archive imagery and order new surveys from different providers.
Software and server infrastructure
Modern software and computing capacity for quality control and processing of large data volumes.
Experienced specialist team
Years of experience on complex projects and specialists in cartography, photogrammetry and remote sensing.
RS data, spectrum and mapping examples
Satellite, aerial and UAV survey, NIR/SWIR/TIR and hyperspectral data for mineral exploration, lithology, feasibility study and quarry monitoring.
1
Geology and mining are related mining processes whose goal is mineral extraction. Geology accompanies all stages of the industry: from geological exploration to creating infrastructure. Mapping of work at these stages is impossible today without remote sensing.
Space geology is the study of Earth from space; the text names geotectonics, geomorphology, seismology, mineral exploration, engineering geology, hydrogeology, geocryology. A general view from a distance makes it possible to perceive the object as a whole. RS shows the planet in the electromagnetic spectrum inaccessible to the eye.
Earth's infrared radiation is recorded by RS systems: warm and cold areas are recognised in the images (in the example — the temperature of cooled or still uncooled lava flows), the temperature of surface rocks and their moisture. Near, shortwave and thermal IR are used for differences in the structural features of the surface.
2
Multispectral visualisation and thematic mapping collect data on the reflectance and absorbing properties of soils, rocks and vegetation. From these, surface lithology is interpreted, and clays, oxides and soil types are determined from satellite and aerial images.
Litho-mineralogical mapping of the surface relies on spectral properties in the ultraviolet, multispectral, thermal infrared, hyperspectral, radar and microwave ranges or their combination with subsequent computer processing. Lithology and mineralogy based on geomorphological analysis and the link of mapping results to structural geology are also stated among the objectives.
From RS, engineering-geological maps are produced at the agreed scale; these data are used in geological and mine-surveying work.
3
Remote sensing combined with geological survey and laboratory analysis is the most effective tool compared with field exploration work. Successful results have been noted in many regions of the world with different RS data and processing methods.
Mapping of hydrothermally altered rocks — common indicators of mineralisation — is an integral part of reconnaissance exploration. Medium-resolution multispectral satellite sensing has long been used to map altered rocks: wide coverage, low cost and relatively simple analysis of mineralisation images.
Processing of Landsat 8 images in many areas of the world with subsequent field verification, according to the text, has made it possible to create thematic maps of laterite, clay, lineaments and other geological maps for the entire globe. In the USA, Western Europe, Australia and China no mine-site planning and development task is solved without RS.
4
Task: digital image processing methods for target zones of gold mineralisation. An area in northeast Sudan, about 1379 km². Along the Red Sea Hills, geological work and mineral exploration programmes were intensified to refine maps and assess mineral potential.
Pansharpening was applied to the Landsat 8 image to increase spatial resolution, along with contrast stretching, principal component analysis and ratio images in RGB colour composites. The goal was to distinguish lithological units and highlight rock alteration as target zones of gold mineralisation.
The mapping identified alteration zones extending from northeast to southwest in acidic metavolcanic and quartz-barite rocks. The enhanced images were loaded into GIS; the geological map was compiled at a scale of 1:400 000. X-ray fluorescence analysis confirmed that some samples from wall-rock alteration zones are gold-bearing.
5
Task: mineral exploration. Most of Cameroon's subsurface wealth is described in the text as still undiscovered and unassessed. In the Mballé area, Landsat 8 image processing was combined with intensive field work; the results of the two stages were brought together for analysis.
Of the eight samples (amphibole gneiss, quartzite, schists, gneiss, granite, granodiorite, syenite and laterite) the rocks are mainly of metamorphic and plutonic origin. They crop out at the surface in various forms; faults are the main pathways of the hydrographic network. The local population uses the rocks in different ways.
The processed image showed a concentration of gold in clay and laterite areas, especially in the south of Mballé. Field work confirmed the mineral concentration at meanders and river confluences. The text notes that a similar study can be applied in other settlements of the country.
6
Task: identification and mapping of lithological units and alteration zones in the El-Beida El-Kobra gold exploration area. Landsat 8 Oli, Aster L1t and Sentinel-2 were used. A methodology for combining data for lithological mapping in arid conditions is presented.
Landsat 8 Oli VIS, NIR and IR bands were enhanced by fusion with a 15 m panchromatic image from the same set, a Spot 10 m panchromatic band and Orbit View-3 5 m. HSV transforms, Gram–Schmidt spectral sharpening, PCA and band ratios were applied to the fused HSV images to map alteration rocks.
From interpretation of Landsat 8 Oli and field verification, a revised lithological map of the area was proposed. The conclusion is that the methods have potential for lithological mapping in arid and semi-arid regions. Mapping of hydrothermally altered rocks — mineralisation indicators — is described as an integral part of reconnaissance exploration.
7
Task: processing and analysis of hyperspectral aerial survey data. In 2019 ASL signed a contract with Greenland's Ministry of Mineral Resources (MMR) to process a large volume of aerial spectral data over the Gardar province in southern Greenland. The survey covered the Ilímaussaq intrusion and the Igaliku magmatic complex.
The area is rich in rare-earth elements and contains little-studied segments. ASL produced mineral-resource maps for high-priority areas in support of a revision of geological knowledge for the exploration industry. Radiometric calibration of survey lines to surface reflectance was performed using field spectra; dataset quality was assessed (artefacts, atmosphere, geometric accuracy); hyperspectral mapping of priority Gardar areas identified by MMR as REE-rich was carried out.
From analysis of a three-dimensional model, rare-earth minerals in the work area were identified and a geological work plan was drawn up.
Frequently asked questions
Answers to key questions about service parameters, timelines, deliverable formats and workflow. If you did not find what you need — contact us and we will help.
Geological exploration is a set of activities carried out to study the geological structure and composition of the Earth’s crust, as well as to search for mineral resources and assess natural resources. These works play an important role in various fields, such as the mining industry, the oil and gas industry, construction and environmental protection.
Geological exploration may include the following stages:
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Preparatory work: Includes studying the available literature, maps and data on the region, and defining the goals and objectives of the study.
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Geological mapping: Geologists carry out route and detailed mapping of the surface in order to compile a map of the region’s geological structure.
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Sampling: Geologists collect rock and soil samples for analysis. This may include well drilling, well logging (studying the rock structure inside the well) and other methods.
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Laboratory analyses: The obtained samples are analysed in laboratories, where various chemical, physical and mineralogical studies are carried out.
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Geophysical surveys: Geophysical methods are used, such as seismic survey, magnetometry, gravimetry and others, to study the structure of the Earth’s crust below the surface.
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Mineral resource study: When searching for resources, geologists analyse the quality and quantity of mineral resources (coal, oil, gas, ores, etc.).
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Reserves assessment: Based on the data obtained, the volumes and economic value of the discovered resources are assessed.
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Geological hazard assessment: Geologists may also analyse geological hazards, such as landslides, earthquakes and other geological phenomena that may affect life safety and construction.
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Report preparation: Based on the results of geological exploration, detailed reports are prepared with a description of the methodology, data and conclusions.
Geological exploration is of great importance for various branches of industry and science, as it makes it possible to obtain information about the geological structure of a region and to manage natural resources effectively.
Geological exploration includes several stages, each of which has its own specifics and purpose. The main stages of geological exploration are described in detail below:
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Preparatory work:
- Definition of goals and tasks: Determining what exactly needs to be investigated or found, for example the presence of certain minerals.
- Collection and analysis of prior information: Study of available literature, maps, aerial photographs and existing geological data on the region.
- Selection of methods and tools: Determining the most suitable methods and technologies for conducting the study.
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Geological mapping:
- Traverse mapping: Geologists move across the terrain, creating a general map of the region's geological structure.
- Detailed mapping: More detailed investigation of specific areas, including the study of rock types, structural features and tectonic disturbances.
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Sampling:
- Well drilling: Wells are drilled to extract samples of rocks and soils, and to study geological structure at depth.
- Well logging: Investigation of rocks inside the well using specialised equipment that provides information on the physical and chemical properties of the rocks.
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Laboratory analyses:
- Mineralogical analysis: Determining the composition and structure of minerals in the samples.
- Chemical analysis: Determining the chemical composition of rocks and soils, which can provide information on the presence of useful elements.
- Physical tests: Measurement of physical properties such as density, strength, porosity.
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Geophysical surveys:
- Seismic survey: Use of sound waves to study the structure of the Earth's crust.
- Magnetometry and gravimetry: Measurement of magnetic and gravitational fields to identify structural features and changes in subsurface layers.
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Mineral investigation:
- Resource assessment: Assessment of the quantity, quality and economic value of discovered minerals such as oil, gas, coal or ores.
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Geological-hazard assessment:
- Risk analysis: Identification of potential geological hazards such as landslides, earthquakes, floods, and their impact on infrastructure and society.
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Report compilation:
- Data systematisation: Processing and analysis of all obtained data and study results.
- Report preparation: Compilation of detailed reports describing the methodology, results, conclusions and recommendations for further actions.
This entire process requires high competence of geologists, specialised equipment and compliance with safety and environmental standards, especially when conducting drilling and other intensive work.
The terms "stages" and "phases" in the context of geological exploration are sometimes used as synonyms, but they can also have some nuances depending on the context. In a general sense, however, the difference between stages and phases may be as follows:
Stages of geological exploration: Stages usually describe a sequence of actions or tasks performed within the overall geological-exploration process. Stages are specific steps or operations that must be completed to achieve the final goal of the study. Each stage has its own specific tasks and goals.
Phases of geological exploration: Phases, on the other hand, may represent broader periods of time into which the entire geological-exploration process can be divided. Phases may include several stages and represent larger steps in the development of an exploration project.
Overall, it can be said that "stages" are more oriented toward specific tasks and steps, while "phases" denote larger phases into which a geological-exploration project can be broken down.
Example:
- Phase: Preliminary studies and planning.
- Stages: Defining goals and objectives, collecting and analysing information, budget planning.
Nevertheless, in different organisations and industries the terms "stages" and "phases" may be used differently, so it is important to take into account the context of the specific situation.
Geological exploration using remote sensing is a method of studying the Earth's surface and subsurface structures by analysing data obtained from remote satellites, aerial photographs and other remote sources. This method makes it possible to obtain information about geological structure, surface and subsurface processes, landscape changes and other parameters that may be useful for various applications.
The application of remote sensing in geological exploration includes the following aspects:
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Satellite remote sensing:
- Using satellite images to create geological maps and analyse landscape changes.
- Spectral analysis of satellite data can help determine rock types, soil cover and other geological characteristics.
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Aerial photography:
- Taking photographs from aircraft such as airplanes or unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) to create detailed maps and terrain models.
- Aerial photography can be used to detect structural features, landscape changes and signs of geological activity.
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Geophysical sensing:
- Using remote methods such as gravimetry and magnetometry to study the physical properties of subsurface layers.
- These methods can help identify hidden structures and anomalies in the geological structure.
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Infrared sensing:
- Analysis of infrared data can help detect surface temperature changes that may be related to subsurface processes such as geothermal activity.
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Radar sensing:
- Applying radar methods to study subsurface structures and determine layer depths.
The advantages of remote sensing include the ability to cover large territories, saving time and resources compared with traditional survey methods, and the ability to obtain data in hard-to-reach or hazardous regions.
Satellite remote sensing plays an important role in geological exploration, providing information on geological structure, rock types, landscape changes and other parameters. Here is a detailed description of this method in the context of geological exploration:
1. Satellite images:
- Satellites observe the Earth's surface and record information as high-resolution images. These images can be used to create geological maps and analyse geomorphological features.
2. Spectral analysis:
- Satellites are equipped with spectrometers that measure electromagnetic radiation from the Earth's surface in various wavelength ranges. This makes it possible to perform spectral analysis and determine the characteristics of rocks, soil cover and vegetation.
3. Image processing:
- The obtained satellite images are processed with specialised software. Processing may include image-quality enhancement, mosaic creation and change detection.
4. Creation of geological maps:
- Geological maps are created from satellite images, showing the distribution of rocks, geomorphological features, water bodies and other objects.
5. Identification of geological structures:
- Satellite images can help identify structural features such as fold structures, faults, saddles and other geological formations.
6. Change monitoring:
- By comparing satellite images acquired at different periods of time, it is possible to track landscape changes, erosion, changes in rivers and other geological processes.
7. Planning of geological exploration:
- Satellite data can help select optimal sites for more detailed geological exploration, such as well drilling or sample collection.
8. Natural-risk assessment:
- Remote sensing makes it possible to identify zones of potential hazards such as landslides, earthquakes and other geological phenomena.
Satellite remote sensing provides a broader overview of geological structure and changes that may be inaccessible for observation from the surface. This method helps geologists and other specialists in the analysis and interpretation of data, which ultimately facilitates decision-making in geological-exploration projects.
Infrared (IR) sensing in geological exploration is a research method that uses infrared radiation emitted or reflected from the Earth's surface to obtain information on various geological and environmental parameters. This method can provide data on temperature, composition, structure and other characteristics of objects and areas.
Here are some key aspects of using infrared sensing in geological exploration:
1. Types of infrared radiation:
- Infrared radiation is divided into several spectral ranges, including the near, mid and far infrared spectrum. Different ranges of infrared waves make it possible to obtain information on different object characteristics.
2. Thermal radiation:
- One of the main aspects of infrared sensing is the study of thermal radiation that objects emit as infrared waves. This makes it possible to measure surface temperature and identify thermal anomalies.
3. Reflected infrared radiation:
- Infrared sensors on board satellites or aerial photographs can measure infrared radiation reflected from the Earth's surface. This makes it possible to analyse the composition and characteristics of surface materials.
4. Analysis of spectral characteristics:
- Different materials and objects may have different spectral characteristics in the infrared ranges. Analysis of spectral data makes it possible to identify types of rocks, minerals and other substances.
5. Detection of geothermal activity:
- IR sensing can help identify zones of geothermal activity, such as hot springs and volcanic formations.
6. Soil-moisture assessment:
- Soil moisture affects its infrared characteristics. IR sensing can be used to assess soil moisture and agroclimatic conditions.
7. Detection of landscape change:
- Infrared sensing can help track landscape changes, including erosion, ground-surface deformations, etc.
8. Analysis of geological processes:
- Infrared sensing can provide information on various geological processes, such as volcanic activity, horizontal movements of the Earth's crust and others.
The use of infrared sensing makes it possible to obtain information on diverse aspects of the geological environment, helping geologists and other specialists carry out detailed studies and make well-founded decisions in geological-exploration projects.
Geological exploration is performed to obtain detailed information on geological structure, the composition of the Earth's crust, the presence of minerals and other natural resources. The tasks of geological exploration may vary depending on the specific project and study goals, but in a general sense they include:
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Mineral prospecting:
- Determining the presence and distribution of minerals such as oil, gas, coal, ores, etc.
- Assessment of the volumes and quality of the resources found.
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Reserve assessment:
- Determining the volumes of minerals that can be extracted taking into account technical, economic and environmental constraints.
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Analysis of geological structure:
- Study of the structure of the Earth's crust, including fold and strike-slip structures, faults and other formations.
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Mineralogy study:
- Determining the types and composition of minerals in rocks to understand geological processes.
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Geochemical analysis:
- Determining the chemical composition of rocks and soils to assess the content of various elements and compounds.
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Study of tectonic disturbances:
- Determining the characteristics of tectonic disturbances such as faults, folds, normal faults, anticlines, etc.
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Geological-hazard assessment:
- Identification of zones of potential hazards such as landslides, earthquakes, volcanic activity.
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Planning of construction and infrastructure projects:
- Study of geological structure to determine optimal locations for the construction of roads, bridges, buildings and other infrastructure facilities.
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Environmental-impact assessment:
- Analysis of the impact of geological factors on the environment and ecosystems.
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Scientific research:
- Conducting fundamental research to expand our understanding of geological processes and Earth's history.
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Development and optimisation of resource extraction:
- Determining optimal methods of mineral extraction taking into account geological characteristics.
The tasks of geological exploration are aimed at obtaining the most accurate and reliable information on the geological environment for well-founded decisions in various sectors, such as the mining industry, the oil and gas industry, construction and environmental protection.
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