Estrella Resources Deploys Advanced Drone Surveys to Unlock Timor-Leste Manganese Potential

Surveying the Future of Timor-Leste Manganese

Estrella Resources Limited (ASX, ESR) has embarked on a significant geological surveying program designed to enhance its understanding and targeting of manganese and limestone deposits within its Timor-Leste concessions. The initiative leverages cutting-edge drone-based technologies, including LiDAR, magnetics, and MobileMTd electromagnetic surveys, across the Ira Miri and Werumata project areas.

The program covers approximately 1,700 hectares at the Werumata limestone prospect and 1,500 hectares at the Ira Miri manganese prospect. These surveys are expected to take around 15 days to complete, with subsequent data interpretation to follow in the weeks after. The goal is to refine geological models and improve drill targeting ahead of planned resource-definition drilling campaigns.

Harnessing Drone Technology for Precision Mapping

At Werumata, the initial phase involves a drone-based LiDAR survey, which uses laser pulses to create detailed topographical maps. This technology is particularly valuable in identifying subtle surface features such as ridges and valleys that may indicate high-purity limestone outcrops. The precision of LiDAR mapping is critical for meeting JORC compliance standards and ensuring effective drill planning.

Following the LiDAR survey, the focus shifts to Ira Miri, where drone-mounted magnetometers will conduct electromagnetic surveys to detect variations in the Earth's magnetic field. These variations can reveal geological structures like faults and folds that may control the location and extent of manganese mineralisation beneath the surface.

MobileMTd, Peering Deeper into the Subsurface

Complementing the magnetics survey, Estrella plans to deploy MobileMTd technology, a drone-mounted system designed to measure electromagnetic resistivity fields at depth. This method is particularly adept at identifying conductive rock formations, such as manganese-rich zones, which exhibit distinct low-resistivity signatures. By integrating these data sets, Estrella aims to build a comprehensive 3D geological model that enhances drill targeting precision and resource estimation.

Managing Director Chris Daws expressed enthusiasm about the campaign, highlighting the cost-effectiveness and potential of these advanced survey techniques in a region that remains largely underexplored. He emphasized the company’s commitment to leveraging both aerial and ground-based data to accelerate the development of its manganese and limestone assets.

Implications for Estrella’s Exploration Strategy

This surveying program represents a strategic step forward for Estrella, providing critical data to guide upcoming drilling campaigns at Ira Miri and Werumata. The integration of drone-based technologies is expected to reduce exploration risk by improving the accuracy of geological models and identifying the most prospective drill targets.

As the surveys conclude and data interpretation progresses, investors and analysts will be watching closely for updates on drilling results and any subsequent resource announcements. The success of this program could materially enhance the valuation of Estrella’s Timor-Leste projects and position the company as a key player in the manganese and limestone sectors.