Unmanned technologies in geological exploration

Background. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) have a great potential for geological exploration optimization at all stages. This study considers UAV implementation at different exploration stage.

Aim. The purpose of this work is to demonstrate the results of the application of unmanned aerial systems technologies in the entire cycle of geological exploration, from the earliest study to the completion of exploration drilling.

Materials and methods. Integrated approach using unmanned aerial systems shows great effectiveness based on the completed surveys. Low-depth electrical exploration using the shallow electrical exploration method is one of the possible UAVs technologies with great potential. In this study there are several cases describing main field data, processed models and cross-sections.

Results. The main results of the work were obtained as a result of a number of field work using attachments and a complex of unmanned aerial systems. The key indicators of the use of statistical data were the reduced values of the cost of exploration, significant up to one field season, significant up to 50 % of the work, as well as the identification of CO₂ and the anthropogenic footprint in general.

Conclusion. The development of these areas is seen in the development of a scientific and methodological base for field and chamber work, the development of algorithms for processing and enrichment of materials, as well as the improvement of measuring systems with the refinement of unmanned carriers in the event of geological exploration needs.

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