Airborne Geophysical survey of the PNG Highlands and the Papuan Peninsula

Abstract

The Airborne Geophysical survey of the PNG Highlands and the Papuan Peninsula involves the collection of geophysical data using helicopter-borne magnetic and gamma-ray spectrometric instruments over 2 areas of Papua New Guinea (PNG), where little or no prior geophysical coverage is available. The availability of these data in both digital and paper-map formats is expected to encourage and facilitate exploration in PNG by international mining companies. All of Area 1, comprising the PNG Highlands portion of the survey, is anticipated to be completed by the end of the 2007 field season in late October. Flight operations will recommence in March 2008 in the Papuan Peninsula. Preliminary interpretation of the magnetic and radiometric data collected to date is providing a much higher degree of resolution and accuracy than has been available to date; with more detail in some areas, and new features being identified in others.