KEY POINTS
- Gold Fields uses space technology to explore Chile.
- ExoSphere tech decreases environmental impact at Salares Norte.
- Sustainability objectives are supported by solar energy and filtered tailings.
At the recently opened Salares Norte gold mine in northern Chile, Gold Fields is enhancing its exploration efforts by utilizing cutting-edge space technology from Australia’s Fleet Space Technologies.
Using Fleet Space’s ExoSphere technology, the South African mining corporation hopes to find new resources at its Brecha Principal and Agua Amarga zones.
According to Mining.com, this state-of-the-art solution offers a novel approach to subsurface exploration by combining artificial intelligence, 3D multiphysics, and satellite connection.
Moreover, utilizing intelligent seismic sensors, known as Geodes, provides effective and low-impact three-dimensional imaging, enabling sustainable mining operations in difficult terrain.
Salares Norte: 3D subsurface imaging
Salares Norte, which is between 3,900 and 4,700 meters above sea level in the Andes’ Maricunga Belt, has a number of difficulties, including rocky terrain, severe weather, and the existence of endangered species.
After a 13-year development process, Gold Fields spilled its first gold in March 2024, a significant turning point for the business.
ExoSphere technology from Fleet Space, which was previously effectively implemented at Gold Fields’ St. Ives operation in Australia, will now facilitate environmentally friendly and highly efficient exploration at the Chilean site.
Dedication to mining sustainably
The implementation of space technology matches with Gold Fields’ broader sustainability aspirations at Salares Norte.Since filtered tailings technology has already been implemented at the site, the mine is able to recycle over 86 percent of its water, reducing its negative environmental effects and guaranteeing safer disposal procedures.
Additionally, the mine will have an on-site solar plant, which should reduce its yearly carbon emissions by more than 10,000 tons of CO2.
Fleet Space’s innovations and technology have received recognition on a global scale, such as the Banksia Foundation’s National Sustainability Awards’ 2024 Climate Technology Impact Award.
With the launch of ExoSphere, Gold Fields hopes to strengthen its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals and further solidify its standing as a progressive leader in the mining sector.
