ABSTRACT
The problems that one faces during exploitation of a field or mineral deposit include making production more efficient and cost effective, adding reserves, and finding ways to extend the life of a mine or field by finding bypassed mineralization or pay. Airphotos and high resolution satellite imagery can generally be used to plan and carry out these objectives. Several examples are provided to demonstrate remote sensing-based approaches to locating and exploiting new reserves. Cases from the petroleum industry illustrate using imagery to help locate infill and stepout wells (Bravo Dome, New Mexico), producing from fractured reservoirs (Denver and Williston basins), coalbed methane (Piceance basin), and waterfloods (Cottonwood Creek field, Wyoming). An example from the Huancavelica mining district, Peru, demonstrates the same process applied to the hard rock mining industry. Finally, remote sensing contributions to mine safety are discussed.
