Satellite imagery has long been established as a powerful tool for mineral mapping, but the latest spaceborne hyperspectral sensors have not yet had their full potential explored. Climate change has mounted pressure on humanity to transition to sustainable technologies, increasing the demand for critical resources such as copper (Cu), commonly found in porphyry systems. Discoveries of new deposits have been rare in recent times, since most resources with significant surface expression have already been exploited.

However, there may be plenty of undiscovered deposits buried deep underground, hence methods must be developed that utilise new, advanced technologies that can pinpoint the locations of concealed deposits. Here we analyse data from the German Aerospace Centre’s (DLR) Environmental Mapping and Analysis Programme (EnMAP) hyperspectral sensor to analyse the propylitic alteration mineral chlorite, which can be an indicator of mineral deposits, around two different porphyry systems to evaluate the sensors capability.

Results show discreet compositional changes in chlorite can be detected from space, and the spatial distribution relative to ore proximity is consistent with previous field investigations, whereby chlorite becomes more enriched in Mg closer to ore. These results imply rapid vectoring towards new ore deposits may be possible using spaceborne hyperspectral imaging, which can cover the entire Earth’s surface in short time periods. The method outlined in this report could benefit the mining industry in a profound way. If refined, it may negate the need for expensive airbonrne surveys and field studies, streamlining the exploration process so the demand for critical resources required for the green transition can be accomadated.