Aerial Mineral Exploration: A New Method at Gottesberg

For the first time, researchers and companies are using a new aerial method to explore ore deposits in the Ore Mountains. To this end, a helicopter and special drones will be deployed in September at Gottesberg in Muldenhammer (Vogtlandkreis), according to the Freiberg Mining Academy. The goal is to create the most accurate 3D model possible of the known tin deposits there.

The method uses electrical signals from conductive ore bodies, which are triggered by power cables laid on the ground, according to the report. These signals are received by a probe equipped with highly sensitive magnetic field sensors mounted on the helicopter. This allows the electrical properties of sediments and rocks to be mapped over large areas down to a depth of 1,000 meters.

Helicopters Instead of Drilling—A New Method for Mineral Exploration

“The Ore Mountains have already been well explored in some areas through drilling and geochemical data, but there is a lack of three-dimensional models, especially for great depths,” explains Thomas Günther, professor of applied geophysics at the TU Bergakademie Freiberg. “These models can be derived indirectly from the distribution of electrical conductivity, thereby providing mining companies with a better basis for calculations and drilling locations.” 

The method, known as semi-airborne electromagnetics, has already been tested in previous projects in Sweden, Spain, Namibia, and the Harz Mountains. It is now being used for the first time in the Ore Mountains. The goal is to transition the method from research to industrial practice.

The Ore Mountains owe their name to their rich ore deposits. Now that ore mining has largely disappeared, however, deposits in the region are once again attracting increased attention. These include lithium and tin, for example. At Gottesberg itself, the Freiberg-based company Saxore is searching for tin deposits. According to the latest estimate, the company anticipates that there are approximately 37 million metric tons of ore containing about 90,900 metric tons of tin that could be mined economically.