资源环境科技发展态势分析平台

The idea is to produce geological maps for various climatic zones and different types of geology, especially in areas where data are scarce, not sufficiently detailed or outdated.

Initial results show that while arid and semi-arid areas can be mapped accurately, tropical areas are more of a challenge.

This is because these regions are typically covered with vegetation, which optical sensors cannot see through to gain information on the ground beneath. In these regions, radar and ground elevation data have been used, so structural information such as river networks form the basis of the maps.

Overall, however, the initiative has shown how large areas can be mapped consistently and efficiently, which is of particular interest for surveying regional geology and for mining minerals.

Francisco Igualada, senior mining specialist at the World Bank said, “Earth observation is one of the major sources of information for new and improved geological mapping.

“The results of the project demonstrate that satellite imagery combined with existing geophysical data is a fast, effective and efficient way to support the production and interpretation of geological maps at all scales – from low-scale reconnaissance mapping to detailed surveys – all of which are relevant for mineral exploration.

Moreover, these results are important because it is envisaged that an accurate and comprehensive geological catalogue will attract future investments in Africa.