How Estrella’s New Survey Unveiled High-Grade Manganese Targets at Ira Miri
Estrella Resources has identified multiple promising subsurface manganese targets at its Ira Miri project in Timor-Leste through a recent Resistivity–Induced Polarisation survey, setting the stage for expanded drilling in 2026.
- Resistivity–Induced Polarisation survey reveals multiple high-chargeability anomalies
- Three key subsurface manganese zones identified, including a thick northern extension
- Previous drilling confirmed significant manganese oxide intersections up to 80%
- Assay results expected within 1-3 weeks to guide next drilling phase
- New exploration manager appointed amid ongoing project development
Survey Highlights New Manganese Targets
Estrella Resources Limited (ASX – ESR) has taken a significant step forward at its Ira Miri manganese project in Timor-Leste by completing a detailed Resistivity–Induced Polarisation (Res-IP) geophysical survey. The survey pinpointed multiple highly chargeable subsurface anomalies that align closely with known manganese outcrops and previous diamond drilling results, providing fresh, high-priority targets for exploration.
The Res-IP technique, which measures electrical chargeability and resistivity variations underground, has proven effective in detecting manganese mineralisation. The anomalies identified occur at shallow depths between 5 and 25 metres and exhibit thicknesses consistent with supergene enrichment zones formed through weathering processes.
Key Zones and Drill Results
Among the three main chargeability zones identified, the standout is a northern extension interpreted as a thickening of manganese mineralisation previously intersected in drill holes EMDD032 to EMDD034. Notably, EMDD033 intersected an impressive 12.87 metres grading approximately 80% manganese oxides from just over 5 metres depth, underscoring the potential scale and grade of this target.
Other zones include a moderate to strong anomaly correlating with surface manganese mineralisation and a high-chargeability zone between EMDD004 and EMDD019, which is considered the most promising for follow-up drilling due to its intensity and geometry suggesting a substantial manganese body.
Next Steps and Corporate Developments
Estrella is awaiting laboratory assay results from samples recently airfreighted to Jakarta, expected within the next one to three weeks. These results will refine the prioritisation of drill targets ahead of the 2026 field season, when drilling and trenching activities are planned to resume. The company is also considering expanding the Res-IP survey to cover additional lines to further delineate mineralisation.
In parallel, Estrella announced the appointment of Peter Spitalny as Exploration Manager for Timor-Leste, replacing Steve Warriner. Spitalny brings over 30 years of experience in manganese and other commodities exploration, which is expected to bolster the company’s technical capabilities as it advances its projects.
Strategic Implications
The survey results and upcoming drilling program position Estrella to potentially expand its manganese resource base significantly. The Ira Miri project, combined with the Werumata limestone project, forms a growing portfolio in a region that remains largely underexplored with modern techniques. The integration of geophysical data with geological mapping and drilling results is enhancing the understanding of mineralisation controls and guiding efficient resource development.
While visual estimates of mineralisation provide encouraging early indications, the awaited assay data will be critical to confirm grades and support resource modelling under JORC standards. The company’s proactive approach to exploration and infrastructure preparation ahead of the next field season reflects a clear commitment to advancing the project towards commercial viability.
Bottom Line?
With high-priority manganese targets now defined and drilling imminent, Estrella Resources is poised for a pivotal exploration phase in Timor-Leste.
Questions in the middle?
- Will upcoming assay results confirm the high-grade visual estimates from drilling?
- How extensive is the newly identified northern manganese zone beyond current drill lines?
- What impact will the new Exploration Manager have on accelerating project development?