ZALA drone technology for efficient geological exploration of deposits

ZALA has created a technology that makes mineral exploration faster and more cost-effective. The technology, based on special software and the use of a certified high-sensitivity magnetometer installed on board the UAV, enables the rapid acquisition of detailed data on the magnetic properties of rocks and comprehensive exploration of large-scale and hard-to-reach areas.

Unique design solutions for aeromagnetic survey The unique design solutions for aeromagnetic survey incorporated in the ZALA T-20 UAS have been patented and have already been used to survey fields in the central regions of Yakutia. The total length of the routes was more than 4 thousand kilometres. In 2025, ZALA unmanned systems will work in the Arctic: the company has received an order to conduct aeromagnetic survey of the South Tambeyskoye field on the Yamal Peninsula. The scope of the planned work is more than 1,200 square kilometres.

The main advantage of the specialised ZALA complex is the automated processing of aeromagnetic survey data, which is performed already during the flight of the balloon. Preliminary geological survey results become available within an hour after landing. In this way, field specialists can quickly determine the prospectivity of the investigated areas and adjust exploration plans. This method can be used to study deposits of any metals, including rare-earth metals.

Conducting aeromagnetic surveys using ZALA unmanned technologies is a profitable and progressive method of research that can be used at any time of the year for geological exploration of the most inaccessible and extensive areas. Experience shows that data from UAVs are as informative as ground surveys. Compared to manned aviation, magnetic field measurements using the ZALA complex are many times cheaper and can cover both small areas and large deposits. At the same time, ZALA unmanned aviation systems are 5 times more productive than copter-type UAVs, as they can stay in flight for a long time (more than 4 hours) and are significantly faster in speed.