Multispectral analysis
The study of geological features across vast areas during the early stages of geological exploration
Remote analysis of rock reflectivity identifies ore deposits prior to the start of drilling operations, helping to optimise the exploration strategy.
What issues faced by subsoil users are addressed during the multispectral analysis stage?
01
High exploration costs in the early stages
We narrow down the search area even before conducting a site survey, which saves time and resources.
02
Uncertainty in the distribution of rock complexes
We classify rock types using cluster analysis of satellite spectral images and identify their association with ore-bearing zones.
03
The complexity of working with spatial data
We use PCA to identify hidden patterns and simplify the interpretation of multispectral data, focusing on the key features.
04
Inconsistencies in data when searching for mineralised zones
We identify anomalous areas showing signs of mineralisation by calculating mineral indices and determine promising zones for further investigation.
How does multispectral analysis work?
We process satellite imagery acquired across several spectral bands, which enables us to identify rock types based on their reflectance at different wavelengths.
We employ a comprehensive analytical method that includes:
- Satellite Data Acquisition (Landsat, Sentinel, WorldView-3, ASTER, MODIS) — leveraging a broad spectrum of spatial resolutions and spectral bands;
- Image pre-processing — we perform atmospheric, geometric and radiometric corrections to correct for distortions and facilitate further interpretation;
- Mineral Index Generation — mapping zones of elevated silicification (quartz), argillic alteration (clays), and iron oxides — key alteration signatures associated with mineralization;
- Data classification and clustering — using automated algorithms, we identify rock formations and structural elements;
- Principal component analysis — we identify hidden spectral patterns and distinctive features that point to promising areas for further study.
The result is that the client receives forecast maps identifying anomalous areas and promising zones for priority geological exploration.
Focus on high-potential ground — without unnecessary costs
Multispectral analysis identifies promising geological targets even before fieldwork begins.
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Comprehensive assessment of ore potential using VEDART RS®
Issues faced by subsoil users
One of the most pressing challenges at the outset of any geological project is the disproportionately high financial risk associated with uncertainty. Fieldwork, which often requires extensive logistics, represents the most significant cost item in the budget. Multispectral analysis radically changes this approach, allowing the search area to be narrowed down by 70–80% even before geologists head out into the field, which leads to significant savings in time and material resources, enabling efforts to be focused on the most promising areas.
Another key objective is to reduce uncertainty regarding the distribution of rock formations. Multispectral analysis enables our specialists to trace the boundaries between different geological formations with a high degree of accuracy and to refine their composition, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of the geological structure of the area and providing a solid foundation for further work.
Finally, identifying potential ore-bearing zones is one of the key tasks addressed by multispectral analysis. Using satellite imagery, our specialists identify areas showing signs of mineralisation, delineate priority targets for subsequent field investigations and rank them by priority, which significantly improves the efficiency of geological exploration work.
Methodology for conducting the analysis
The multispectral analysis process at Geojet Group follows a rigorous sequence of steps to ensure the highest possible accuracy of results. In the first stage, libraries of satellite images are compiled to suit the specific objectives and site conditions. Furthermore, before analysis begins, all images undergo the necessary pre-processing steps to ensure the accuracy of their subsequent interpretation and analysis.
The next stage involves selecting methods and techniques for interpreting and processing satellite imagery tailored to specific conditions, which may include the interpretation of images across various spectral bands, the creation and analysis of index images (Iron Oxide Index, Clay Index, Quartz Index and others), the creation of false-colour composites and their interpretation, the application of classification procedures, the principal component analysis method with the construction of majority and minority component diagrams, the development of machine learning classifications, and interpretation based on spectral characteristics. All of this enables us to obtain the most comprehensive and objective picture of the area.
The final stage involves integrating all the results obtained, verifying them and carrying out a comprehensive interpretation. Data processed using various methods are synthesised into a single model within a GIS environment, which makes it possible to refine the geological structure of the area, identify poorly defined structures, trace the boundaries of features and determine the characteristics of the surface mineral composition. Ultimately, this makes it possible to draw well-founded and reliable conclusions about the patterns of mineral distribution and to predict potential ore-bearing deposits.
The end result for the client
Following the multispectral analysis, the client receives a comprehensive set of materials that transforms uncertainty into a clear plan of action. The key deliverable is a series of thematic maps showing promising zones and areas, ranked according to their priority for further geological exploration work. These maps are accompanied by a technical report containing an interpretation of the identified patterns, the coordinates of specific targets for field verification, and recommendations on the optimal methods for studying them in the field.
Multispectral analysis thus serves as the missing link, enabling the early identification of potentially promising areas. This method enables the subsoil user to stay one step ahead, concentrating efforts and investments exclusively on those areas that have been pre-selected based on objective spectral criteria, which ultimately increases the efficiency of the entire geological exploration process many times over.
Focus your fieldwork on the most promising areas
Multispectral analysis enables the identification of promising areas and the assessment of their potential at an early stage, providing critical data for planning exploration work. It is a strategic tool designed to minimise risks and maximise the return on investment in geological exploration.
Request a consultation, and our experts will explain in detail how to apply multispectral analysis to assess the potential of your licence area
