Encounter Resources is set to launch a major 2026 exploration program at its Jessica Copper Project in the Northern Territory, partnering with South32 to test multiple high-potential copper targets identified through recent geophysical surveys.
- 4,000m reverse circulation and 2,000m diamond drilling planned for 2026
- Jessica Farm-in Agreement expanded with 685km of new tenure
- Drilling targets derived from 2025 VTEM, MIMDAS, and AEM geophysical surveys
- Regional magnetotelluric (MT) survey scheduled for Q3 2026
- South32 to operate and fund the exploration program
Exploration Momentum Builds at Jessica Copper Project
Encounter Resources Limited (ASX, ENR) has announced a substantial drilling and geophysical exploration program for 2026 at its Jessica Copper Project in the Northern Territory. This initiative, conducted under a farm-in agreement with South32 Limited, marks a significant step forward in advancing one of Australia's most promising copper exploration ventures.
The project area, which now covers approximately 9,600 square kilometres along key structural corridors east of Tennant Creek, has been the focus of extensive geophysical work over recent years. These efforts have included seismic reprocessing, airborne electromagnetic (AEM) surveys, and the innovative MIMDAS geophysical technique, all aimed at refining the understanding of the region's geology and identifying high-quality copper targets.
A Large-Scale Drilling Program Takes Shape
For 2026, Encounter and South32 plan to undertake a comprehensive drilling campaign comprising 4,000 metres of reverse circulation (RC) drilling and 2,000 metres of diamond drilling. These efforts will test multiple targets highlighted by the 2025 VTEM and MIMDAS surveys, including the notable Zeta IOCG target, which has already yielded encouraging signs of copper mineralisation from previous drilling.
In addition to drilling, a regional magnetotelluric (MT) survey is scheduled for the third quarter of 2026. This survey will map conductive geological units and major fault structures over a 191-kilometre transect within the Brunette Downs rift corridor, potentially unveiling new exploration opportunities within the expanded project footprint.
Strategic Expansion and Partnership
The Jessica Farm-in Agreement has been expanded to include an additional 685 square kilometres of tenure, broadening the exploration scope and enhancing the project's potential. South32’s involvement, including funding and operational control of the 2026 program, underscores the strategic importance of the Jessica Copper Project and reflects confidence in its prospectivity.
Executive Chairman Will Robinson emphasised the timing and scale of the exploration activities, noting the favourable conditions for testing large-scale copper targets in Australia’s Tier 1 jurisdictions. The integration of multiple geophysical datasets and recent drilling results has laid a robust foundation for the upcoming work, which aims to unlock the project's full potential.
Looking Ahead
Final designs for the drilling program are expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2026, with drilling operations set to commence in the second quarter. The outcomes of these activities will be closely watched by investors and industry observers, as they could significantly influence the valuation and development trajectory of the Jessica Copper Project.
Bottom Line?
As Encounter and South32 gear up for a pivotal drilling season, the Jessica Copper Project stands poised to redefine copper exploration in the Northern Territory.
Questions in the middle?
- What initial results will the 2026 drilling program yield regarding copper mineralisation?
- How will the expanded tenure influence the overall resource potential of the Jessica Project?
- What strategic role will South32 play in advancing the project beyond exploration?