The use of multispectral satellite imagery in the exploration for petroleum and minerals

Abstract

The paper reviews the application of multispectral satellite imagery to mineral and petroleum exploration, from the stage when satellite imagery first became available, with the launch of ERTS-1 (Landsat) just over 10 years ago, to the present day. The operation of Landsat is briefly described, and it is noted that the continuing success of this system for geological application has been in part due to the development of a world-wide network of receiving stations and the application of sophisticated data-processing techniques. Current research into the measurement of infrared spectra for the discrimination of rocks and minerals is discussed. Interpretation techniques are important but their success depends largely upon the experience of the interpreters as geologists. Examples of the use of Landsat imagery in exploration are given, and interpretations techniques are reviewed. Combining Landsat interpretation with that of regional geophysical surveys can bring important advantage. Finally the new generation of imaging multispectral satellites is described and the implications with regard to petroleum and mineral exploration are discussed.