DeSoto Resources Launches Maiden Drilling at Spectrum REE-Au-Cu Project
DeSoto Resources has commenced its first diamond drilling program at the Spectrum rare earths, gold, and copper project in the Northern Territory, targeting multiple promising geophysical anomalies.
- Maiden diamond drilling underway at Spectrum REE-Au-Cu Project
- Fully permitted 20-hole RC and diamond drill program in progress
- Targets include Vesper EM prospect and historic Quantum REE discovery
- Drilling supported by extensive geophysical and geochemical data
- Assays pending from initial 550m diamond drill hole at Fenton South
Drilling Commences at Spectrum
DeSoto Resources Limited (ASX – DES) has officially begun its maiden diamond drilling campaign at the Spectrum Project, located in the Pine Creek region of the Northern Territory. This marks a significant milestone for the company as it seeks to unlock the potential of this strategically positioned rare earth elements (REE), gold, and copper asset.
The Spectrum Project is fully permitted for a comprehensive 20-hole drilling program combining Reverse Circulation (RC) and diamond drilling methods. The initial phase has seen all drill pads completed, with drilling set to continue throughout the 2025 exploration season.
Targeting Multiple Anomalies
The drilling program focuses on two key targets – the Vesper EM prospect and the historic Quantum REE discovery. Vesper is notable for its large, shallow electromagnetic and magnetic anomalies, supported by an extensive 8-kilometer copper soil anomaly identified through Mobile Metal Ion (MMI) geochemical sampling. Meanwhile, Quantum has previously returned impressive rare earth intercepts, including 50 meters at 1.55% total rare earth oxides (TREO), with a high-grade 12-meter section at 4.51% TREO.
These targets are situated within a complex structural setting at the intersection of the Fenton Shear Zone and Hayes Creek Fault Zone, geological features known to control mineralisation in the region. DeSoto’s integration of geophysical data, including gravity and aeromagnetic surveys, alongside structural mapping, has guided the identification of these promising drill sites.
Strategic Expansion and Exploration Synergies
The Spectrum Project expands DeSoto’s footprint within its existing Fenton tenement area, complementing ongoing exploration activities. Managing Director Chris Swallow highlighted the company’s excitement about drilling on two continents simultaneously, with concurrent programs in the Northern Territory and Guinea’s Siguiri Basin gold projects. This diversified approach underscores DeSoto’s ambition to build a robust portfolio of mineral assets.
Environmental and native title clearances have been secured, ensuring the program proceeds with full regulatory compliance. The company has already completed a 550-meter diamond drill hole at Fenton South, which is en route to the laboratory for assay analysis.
Looking Ahead
DeSoto has committed to keeping the market informed as drilling progresses and assay results become available. The outcomes of this maiden drilling campaign will be critical in assessing the economic potential of the Spectrum Project and guiding future exploration and development strategies.
Bottom Line?
As DeSoto advances its maiden drilling at Spectrum, investors await assay results that could redefine the project's potential.
Questions in the middle?
- What will the initial assay results reveal about the grade and extent of mineralisation?
- How might the Spectrum drilling outcomes influence DeSoto’s broader exploration strategy?
- Could the structural complexity at Spectrum lead to discovery of additional mineralised zones?
