Data Acquisition and Processing

At the outset we are happy to advise on the data best suited to the region under consideration, and then order and acquire the data on our client's behalf; however we are also willing to use data provided by the client. We undertake processing to ensure that the data is geocoded to the specified projection and datum and enhanced for geological interpretation. We are competent in the application and use of most types of digital image data obtained from satellite and airborne platforms, which includes Landsat, ASTER, High Resolution (HR) optical imagery & satellite and airborne radars. Not forgetting that interpretation of aerial photographs can make an important contribution.

Alteration Mapping

Spectral mapping using data from satellite systems such as Landsat or ASTER to differentiate lithologies and alteration mineral suites, this combined with structural analysis is used to map hydrothermal systems and other indications of mineral deposits. This involves processing the data to generate ratio images to map any alteration minerals that may represent the surface expression of mineralized zones, which are highlighted on the final map, and in combination with the lithostructural interpretation provide a basis for target selection.

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Target Selection and GIS Interpretation

The benefit of compiling the remote sensing interpretation and target selection criteria directly into a GIS format means that the results can be integrated into the client's database. This ensures that the results of the image interpretation can be combined and compared with other sources of data (e.g. geophysics, geochemistry etc.) enabling an integrated assessment of the results to refine and prioritise the number of targets and plan a field programme. The outcome makes use of the benefit of the synoptic overview of the satellite imagery to reduce the fieldwork requirement.

Lithostructural Geological Mapping

The interpretation methodology involves a process of identifying small-scale features to provide the evidence for large structures to build up the interpretation of the data. The surface traces of features such as bedding/banding/foliation fabrics, bedrock surficial cover contacts, faults/fractures/lineaments, and possible dykes/veins are annotated directly on-screen to the appropriate GIS layer. The fully attributed layers of the lithostructural interpretation map normally include the following:

• Geological boundaries
• Foliation/bedding
• Faults fractures/lineaments dykes & veins
• Alteration anomalies possibly related to mineralisation
• Potential targets for exploration

During annotation, reference would be made to the available geological mapping to help guide interpretation and identify lithology and stratigraphy. In some cases it is also important to map geomphological features which may influence the dispersion of trace elements or host placer deposits, and these will be included when appropriate.

Recent Experience

Over the past few years projects have been undertaken to aid the exploration for the following commodities:

• Gold
• Silver
• Diamonds
• Base metals (particularly copper, lead, zinc, nickel tin & tungsten)
• Uranium

These have been undertaken in the countries listed below, which include climatic zones from tropical rain forest, through temperate and semi arid savanna grasslands to desert regions.

• Argentina
• Brazil
• Peru
• Mexico
• Honduras
• Canada
• Burkina Faso
• Mali

• DRC
• Zambia
• Lesotho
• Mozambique
• Greece
• Bulgaria
• Vietnam