Innovative Airborne TEM Method for Cost-efficient Mineral Exploration

An innovative helicopter TEM method (SkyTEM312FAST) has been engineered to offer: (1) the same depth of investigation as conventional systems for deep mineral exploration, (2) the same near-surface resolution as conventional helicopter TEM system, and (3) the same cost-efficiency as fixed-wing TEM systems.

The method has the potential to disrupt the traditional process for mineral exploration where reconnaissance and target surveying are conducted in separate steps and commonly with different methods. With SkyTEM312FAST both steps can be carried out concurrently leading to time and cost savings.

SkyTEMFAST312 is based on advancements in receiver and transmitter technology as well as significant improvements in aerodynamics.

SkyTEM312FAST was successfully tested in Australia and the results showed that the new method offers the same near-surface resolution as well as depth penetration as conventional methods.

Also, SkyTEM312FAST was employed in a 21,000 line-kms survey in British Columbia in 2015. The outcome was in line with the field tests and confirmed the geophysical merits. In addition, an extraordinary high production rate with an average of 525 line-kms was obtained.