SAGA 2024 in focus: what is next for geophysics in Africa

Innovation, exploration, and industry recognition at the Southern African Geophysical Association.?

At the recent Southern African Geophysical Association (SAGA) Conference in Windhoek, Namibia, Xcalibur Smart Mapping took part in a pivotal event for the African geophysics' community. Held biennially, SAGA brings together thought leaders, industry professionals, and academics to discuss emerging technologies and strategies shaping the future of geophysics. This year’s theme, “Collaborative Geoscience for Critical Supply,” underscored the vital role that geophysical advancements play in sustainable resource exploration and development across the continent.?

Xcalibur’s team—John Smith, Eric Johnson, Ben Carter, Letticia Denysschen, Thashen Naidoo, Tiaan Mitton, and Nicole Trindade—actively engaged with other industry experts, displaying Xcalibur Smart Mapping's technological capabilities, and receiving positive feedback on our presentations. There was significant focus on geophysical exploration in Zambia, Angola, and Tanzania, particularly in the Copper Belt region, where renewed interest from major mining players like BHP, AngloGold Ashanti, and Rio Tinto reflects the area’s strategic importance.?

Exploring new frontiers: natural hydrogen and technological advances?

Natural hydrogen garnered considerable attention at SAGA, driven by the geological process of serpentinization, which offers a potential clean and affordable energy source. Africa is particularly well-positioned in this domain, with the only operational H? field located in Mali. Xcalibur Smart Mapping is equipped to lead these exploration efforts through advanced technology such as FALCON? AGG and the developing the hydrogen mapping airborne spectrometer, designed for the efficient detection and exploration of natural hydrogen.?

The conference also highlighted innovations in airborne geophysics, including the Full Tensor Magnetic Gradiometer (FTMG). Although still in development and costly, the FTMG is set to transform our understanding of magnetic remanence. Its eventual commercialization could yield significant insights into the age and characteristics of kimberlite formations, which are essential for diamond prospecting.?

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Prospects and innovation in geophysical techniques?

SAGA underscored the potential of Induced Polarization (IP) and Airborne Passive EM technologies for mineral exploration. These methods, especially relevant for copper deposits, are gaining traction as key tools for subsurface investigation. Xcalibur Smart Mapping is committed to enhancing its technological portfolio to meet the evolving demands of the industry.?

Collaborating with academic institutions, such as the University of the Witwatersrand, allows us to support the development of future geophysicists and strengthens our research capabilities. This partnership reinforces our commitment to innovation and maintaining leadership in the field.?

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Conclusions?

Conference Chairperson, Reece van Buren, emphasised that collaboration between geophysics and related disciplines is essential to securing the critical materials needed to sustain contemporary and future technologies. "Speed and sustainability in discovering and supplying these materials are vital to preventing global resource shortages," van Buren noted, adding that these efforts are crucial for maximising the potential of 4IR technologies in safeguarding global communities from potential tipping points.?

SAGA 2024 highlights how critical materials directly influence sustainable living, showcasing innovative solutions that address increasing demands for resource discovery and extraction. Namibia, as host, is well-suited to the event, being one of the world's richest sources of critical materials. Van Buren also pointed out the importance of preserving precious water resources, particularly in arid regions like Namibia, where they play a key role in industrial processes. The event offers delegates the chance to witness groundbreaking research across exploration, energy, mining, and geophysics, reinforcing Namibia’s position as a leader in sustainable exploration practices.?

Celebrating recognition and awards?

Xcalibur Smart Mapping concluded SAGA 2024 by receiving two prestigious awards: “Meritorious Service to SAGA and the Industry” and the “Industry Innovation Award,” the latter shared with Eddie Kostlin. These honours reaffirm our dedication to pioneering geophysical exploration across Africa and our commitment to offering innovative solutions that address both client needs and community goals.?

From left to right: Reece van Buren, Chairperson and Corporate Member for Digital Surveying, South Africa; Eddie Kostlin, Consulting Geophysicist and Delegate from South Africa; Teo Hage, Vice President of Technology and Managing Director for South Africa at Xcalibur Smart Mapping; and Oleg Brovko, SAGA President, Technical Co-chair, and Exhibitor representing Geofocus, South Africa.

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About Xcalibur Smart Mapping?

Xcalibur Smart Mapping is the global leader in the airborne geophysics and mapping industry, providing comprehensive and sustainable solutions for mapping and assessing natural capital, renewable and non-renewable resources, with +100 years of accumulated experience.??

With over 1,400 executed projects and an astonishing total of more than 50 million linear kilometres flown, we have become global leaders across six continents. Our worldwide presence is underpinned by a fleet of more than 40 specialised aircraft owned by the group, all equipped with state-of-the-art geophysical systems. Our workforce, consisting of over 400 highly qualified employees, serves as the driving force behind our continuous innovation and industry success.??

To learn more, visit www.xcaliburmp.com??