Gold Fields collaborates with Fleet Space's ExoSphere to boost exploration in Chile

Sydney, Australia (SPX) Oct 03, 2024
Fleet Space Technologies, Australia's leading space exploration company, has announced its collaboration with Gold Fields to deploy the ExoSphere solution for advanced mineral exploration at the Salares Norte project in Northern Chile. ExoSphere will provide 3D subsurface imaging of the Brecha Principal and Agua Amarga resource areas, aiming to uncover new insights into the site's mineral system and structural characteristics. The survey will also target new exploration opportunities within the BP-AA system's surrounding area.

"Fleet Space and Gold Fields share a vision of applying the powerful capabilities enabled by advanced satellite connectivity, 3D multiphysics, and AI to unify the end-to-end exploration journey and deliver more sustainable outcomes at scale on the path to discovery," said Flavia Tata Nardini, Co-Founder and CEO of Fleet Space Technologies. "We are proud to deploy ExoSphere to further Gold Fields' data-driven exploration and ESG targets, reinforcing their position on the forefront of innovation and supporting the development of their world-class operation in Chile."

Located in the Andes Mountains, the Salares Norte project sits at an elevation of 3,900 - 4,700 meters above sea level on the Maricunga Belt in the Atacama region. First gold from the site was poured in March 2024, marking a key milestone. With its remote and challenging conditions, the project has required innovative approaches and technologies to balance effective exploration with a minimal environmental footprint. Following positive results from Fleet Space's ExoSphere deployment at Gold Fields' St. Ives operation in Australia, this technology has now been selected for use at Salares Norte, leveraging its ability to deliver rapid, low-impact subsurface imaging using smart seismic sensors called Geodes.

"In the field of mineral exploration, ExoSphere has delivered the world's largest real-time ANT survey in Australia's Macquarie Arc and now the world's highest real-time ANT survey on Chile's Maricunga Belt," added Nardini. "This technology enhances mineral system knowledge in remote zones while reducing environmental impacts. We are excited to partner with Chile's mining industry to unlock further insights and sustainability benefits."

ExoSphere's system combines satellite connectivity, 3D multiphysics, and AI into one integrated solution. Using Fleet Space's low Earth orbit satellite network, smart seismic sensors, and advanced edge computing, the platform provides real-time 3D mineral mapping with near-zero environmental impact. By streamlining data operations and enabling rapid decision-making onsite, ExoSphere improves the efficiency and precision of exploration processes.