Remote Sensing Prospecting Deposit Model Using Aster Data: A Case Study from Southern Part of Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, China

Abstract

This work uses multiple types of remote sensing data to develop a model-based mineral exploration method. Data used include Worldview-2 satellite data as the main information source supplemented by QuickBird satellite data to assist in geological interpretations and ASTER satellite data to extract remote sensing anomalies. We have enhanced the spectral and spatial resolution of the remote sensing data using ENVI software. Human-computer interaction methods have been used to confirm the geological conditions. We have interpreted 24 distinct lithologic units, including various types of metamorphic and sedimentary rocks. A total of 471 remote sensing anomalies were delineated, consisting of 173 hydroxyl anomalies and 298 iron-staining anomalies. Geological background screening methods were applied to identify 98 remote sensing anomalies, of which 29 were recommended for further study. Based on the interpretation of anomalies extracted from the ASTER and other geological remote sensing data sets, we have established a typical-deposit prospecting model. In the model, we delineated remote sensing prospecting targets by considering: remote sensing anomalies, geologic bodies and structures, geophysical anomalies and geochemical anomalies. Using this model, we divided the work area into two zones based on types of mineral generation. Seven prospecting targets (one A class, three B class and three C class) were identified. Trenching and block sorting methods were conducted for field verification, and resulted in the discovery of two copper and two iron occurrences with commercial potential.