Barrick Gold's Data-Driven Copper enhanced from Space
According to a recent announcement by Fleet Space Technologies, their end-to-end mineral exploration solution, ExoSphere, has been deployed to enhance Barrick Gold's data-driven copper exploration at the Reko Diq project in Pakistan. ExoSphere, powered by advanced space technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and 3D multiphysics, is being used to generate 3D subsurface maps of local groundwater systems and copper porphyry complexes across multiple zones of interest in the Reko Diq project.
The collaboration between Barrick Gold and Fleet Space aims to leverage cutting-edge technologies to enhance mineral discovery and promote sustainability goals in the exploration process. By utilizing innovations in space, AI, and 3D multiphysics for copper exploration, the organizations aspire to achieve a more sustainable and scalable approach to meet the copper supply demands of the clean energy future, aligned with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Reko Diq holds strategic significance for Barrick Gold, as it represents one of the largest undeveloped copper-gold projects globally. The area is known for significant copper-gold ore deposits of various grades within the Chagai mountain range. The project is expected to commence production in 2028 and is poised to contribute significantly to Pakistan's economy by creating employment opportunities, supporting development programs, and driving regional economic growth in the Balochistan province.
ExoSphere's end-to-end architecture offers new insights and predictive capabilities to streamline exploration operations at every stage. By utilizing Fleet Space's satellite network in low Earth orbit, smart seismic sensors with edge computing, and rapid data processing, ExoSphere enables real-time 3D mapping of mineral systems and AI-powered drill targeting with minimal environmental impact. This process accelerates the end-to-end data journey, making exploration activities more efficient and precise by providing remote teams with immediate access to actionable insights.
ExoSphere's space technology and AI integration simplify data acquisition, processing, integration, and decision-making, resulting in improved quality and speed of decision-making while reducing the overall environmental footprint. This innovative solution has been recognized for its sustainability benefits and capabilities, winning the Climate Technology Impact Award at the Banksia Foundation's 35th National Sustainability Awards in 2024. The success of ExoSphere has contributed to Fleet Space's exponential growth, including significant funding, increased valuation, plans for lunar deployment in 2026, and recognition as Australia's fastest-growing company.
About Fleet Space Technologies:
Fleet Space Technologies is Australia's leading space company, revolutionizing critical mineral exploration, space exploration, and defense with its satellite-enabled solutions and AI-powered mineral exploration technology, ExoSphere. Headquartered in Adelaide, Australia, Fleet Space has expanded globally with a presence in the US, Canada, Chile, and Luxembourg, employing over 120 professionals. In 2023, Fleet Space was recognized as Australia's fastest-growing company by the Australian Financial Review.
Original article: https://www.mining-technology.com/news/barrick-gold-uses-fleet-space-tech-for-reko-diq-exploration/
