Spectrem2000 AEM as a mapping and discovery system

Abstract

Spectrem Air Limited is jointly owned by Anglo American and De Beers. The Spectrem2000 system was upgraded to its current configuration in 2000, with significantly improved transmitter and acquisition capabilities. Since then there has been a steady progression of improvements to the acquisition and receiver components. The Spectrem design philosophy was to build a broadband system with the following capabilities: high resolution mapping; deep penetration; ability to operate in conductive terrain; direct detection and safe operation. To date over 1,000,000km of surveys have been flown in Africa, South America, North America and Europe. Due to Spectrem's unique broadband configuration, it has been successful in both direct detection and mapping roles. Recent developments have been aimed at improving the ability to conduct AEM surveys in conductive areas. This includes building a low frequency EM bird and processing developments to obtain better discrimination for more conductive targets. A number of case studies from various terrains are presented demonstrating the multi-faceted nature of the Spectrem system.