Litchfield Minerals has launched an Induced Polarisation survey to uncover concealed extensions of the Oonagalabi Formation, aiming to expand its mineral footprint southward and along key magnetic structures.
- Induced Polarisation survey underway at Oonagalabi Project
- Focus on blind extensions of Oonagalabi Formation toward Silver Valley
- Survey targets major magnetic structure near VT1 high-conductance EM anomaly
- Potential to identify new drill targets beneath shallow cover
- Survey conducted by Planetary Geophysics under contract
Exploring Beyond the Surface
Litchfield Minerals has initiated an Induced Polarisation (IP) geophysical survey at its Oonagalabi Project in the Northern Territory, marking a strategic push to expand the known boundaries of its mineral system. The survey, conducted by Planetary Geophysics, aims to detect blind extensions of the Oonagalabi Formation; geological zones that may be hidden beneath rugged terrain and shallow cover, beyond what is visible at surface.
Two-Pronged Survey Approach
The IP survey is designed with two primary objectives. First, it seeks to extend the Oonagalabi Formation southward toward the Silver Valley area, identifying continuous or repeated structural positions that could host additional mineralised horizons. This is particularly important given the challenging terrain that limits direct geological observation.
Second, the survey will follow a major magnetic structure toward the VT1 electromagnetic anomaly, a high-priority target featuring a strong ~3,000 Siemens conductor. Previous electromagnetic surveys mapped over a kilometre of Oonagalabi-style geology in this corridor, suggesting a promising zone for further exploration.
Strategic Implications for Litchfield
Managing Director Matthew Pustahya emphasised the significance of this survey as a means to "track this system beyond what we can easily see at surface." The company believes that the combination of conductivity, structure, and stratigraphy in the VT1 area represents a compelling target for new discoveries. By identifying blind extensions, Litchfield aims to build a pipeline of drill targets that could substantially increase the scale of the Oonagalabi mineral system.
A Practical Pathway to Growth
This survey represents a practical and cost-effective step in Litchfield’s exploration strategy. By improving geological confidence between outcropping areas and mapping beneath shallow cover, the company hopes to uncover mineralised zones that have so far eluded detection. The results of this IP survey will be crucial in guiding subsequent drilling programs and refining the project’s resource potential.
Looking Ahead
While the survey results are pending, the approach underscores Litchfield’s commitment to leveraging advanced geophysical techniques to unlock hidden value. The company’s focus on sustainable and innovative exploration methods aligns with its broader mission to responsibly develop critical mineral resources in Australia’s Northern Territory.
Bottom Line?
Litchfield’s IP survey could redefine the Oonagalabi Project’s potential, setting the stage for a new wave of discoveries.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the IP survey confirm significant blind extensions of the Oonagalabi Formation?
- How might the VT1 EM anomaly translate into economically viable mineralisation?
- What timeline and budget will Litchfield allocate for follow-up drilling based on survey results?