Magnetic field maps
Maps of the anomalous magnetic field (ΔT) and its transforms, featuring isolines and a color scale.
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UAV magnetic surveying
(aeromagnetic survey)
Drone-based magnetic surveys with AeroSmartMag, AeroQuantumMag, and MagArrow magnetometers: detailed magnetic field maps for exploration and prospecting in Kazakhstan, including in hard-to-reach areas.
Discuss your project
About the method
Aerial magnetic survey from a drone
Magnetic surveying measures anomalies in the Earth's magnetic field caused by rocks with different magnetic properties. These anomalies help trace intrusions, dikes, faults, alteration zones and ore bodies containing magnetic minerals.
When surveying from a UAV, a magnetometer is suspended beneath the drone and covers the area along a predetermined network of profiles. This is faster than ground-based surveying on foot and more detailed than aerial surveying: the drone flies low, maintains a predetermined trajectory, and is not dependent on terrain.
SMART GEOPHYSICS performs magnetic surveys with UAVs using several types of magnetometers, including AeroSmartMag, AeroQuantumMag with a CSMx sensor and MagArrow (Geometrics, USA), on the DJI Matrice 400 RTK platform, with data quality control in the field and full processing of results.
- MethodAeromagnetic survey with UAV over a network of profiles
- EquipmentAeroSmartMag, AeroQuantumMag (CSMx) and MagArrow on DJI Matrice 400 RTK
- DetailUp to 1,000 measurements per second (MagArrow), equivalent to approximately 1 cm along a survey line at 10 m/s
- ResultMagnetic field maps, interpretation and technical report
Types of work
We select a survey design based on the task, terrain, and required level of detail. If necessary, we combine aerial and ground-based magnetic surveys.
01
Area survey
Surveying the site using a network of parallel profiles with intersecting routes for data alignment. This is the primary type of work for the exploration stage.
02
Terrain following survey
Flying at a constant height above ground in mountainous and hilly terrain reduces terrain-related distortion of magnetic anomalies.
03
Detailed survey
Network densification over identified anomalies to clarify their shape and position before verification work.
04
Surveys of infrastructure sites
Search for underground utilities and metal objects at survey sites.
For small areas and anomaly verification: ground magnetic survey
Application
What tasks does UAV-based magnetic survey solve?
Search for ore deposits
Identification of magnetic anomalies associated with magnetite, pyrrhotite and altered rock zones.
Structural mapping
Tracing faults, dikes, intrusive bodies and geological contacts beneath loose sediments.
Justification for further work
Selection of sites for ground geophysics, trenches and drilling.
Technical objects
Detection of underground utilities and metal objects at survey sites.
Equipment and work parameters
For aeromagnetic surveys, we use the DJI Matrice 400 RTK equipped with AeroSmartMag, AeroQuantumMag (CSMx sensor), and MagArrow magnetometers. We select the sensor suspension configuration and flight parameters based on the specific objectives and site conditions.
| Magnetometers | AeroSmartMag; AeroQuantumMag (CSMx sensor); MagArrow, Geometrics (USA) |
| Sampling rate | 1000 Hz (MagArrow) |
| Survey speed | Up to 10 m/s (MagArrow) |
| Sampling interval | Approx. 1 cm along the profile* |
| Platform | DJI Matrice 400 RTK |
* For MagArrow at a speed of 10 m/s. Flight altitude, profile spacing, and scope of work are determined following an assessment of the site, terrain, and geological objectives.
Workflow
Planning
- Defining objectives and analyzing baseline data
- Selecting flight altitude and profile grid
- Work program, GPS/RTK georeferencing, and aerial photography for the topographic base
Fieldwork
- Mobilization of the team and equipment
- Site reconnaissance
- Flight operations with quality control and recording of diurnal magnetic field variations at a base station
Processing and interpretation
- Profile leveling and adjustment
- Magnetic-field and transformed-data maps
- Geologically constrained interpretation; verification via ground-based magnetic and electrical surveys, if necessary
Reporting
- Technical report with conclusions
- Recommendations for the next stage
- Data delivery in an agreed format
In the field
Surveying challenging terrain
The magnetometer is suspended away from the drone, minimizing interference from motors and electronics. The drone maintains a precise flight path using RTK, while the crew controls the survey from a single location without entering the site itself.
This allows for consistent survey speeds across steppes, mountainous terrain, waste piles, and marshy areas.
Project deliverables
What the client receives
Profile plots
ΔT profile plots highlighting anomalies for verification and detailed follow-up.
Raw and processed data
Map of completed survey lines and traverses, with raw and processed data.
Technical report
Methodology, results, anomaly interpretation, and recommendations for the next stage.
If data already exists: geophysical data processing and interpretation
Experience
Company projects
SMART GEOPHYSICS conducts geophysical surveys throughout Kazakhstan. We conduct UAV-based magnetic surveys both as a standalone service and as part of integrated studies alongside ground-based geophysics.
Partners
Partners and clients
Q&A
Frequently asked questions about UAV-based magnetic surveys
How does UAV magnetic surveying differ from ground-based surveying?
A drone covers survey lines faster than a walking crew and can work over difficult terrain, including wetlands, scree, steep slopes and waste dumps. Ground-based magnetic surveying remains useful for focused follow-up and small sites, so the methods are often combined.
How does drone surveying compare with aircraft aeromagnetic surveying?
A UAV flies lower and slower, placing the magnetometer closer to anomaly sources and allowing a denser survey grid. For areas from several to hundreds of square kilometres, this can deliver finer detail at a lower mobilisation cost than a manned aircraft.
What flight altitude and line spacing are used?
Flight altitude and line spacing are selected for the geological objective and terrain. Lower flights and tighter spacing provide more detail. We agree on these parameters in the work programme before fieldwork starts.
How much area can be surveyed in a day?
Productivity depends on line spacing, terrain, weather and site access. We estimate the survey area and schedule after assessing the site and agreeing on the required level of detail.
Do weather and wind affect the survey?
Yes. Flights are suspended in strong winds or precipitation, so we allow for weather delays in the schedule. Diurnal magnetic-field variations are accounted for during data processing.
Can magnetic data determine ore composition?
No. Magnetic surveying detects anomalies and helps narrow the search area. Ore composition must be confirmed by drilling, geological observations and laboratory analysis.
What deliverables does the client receive?
Raw and processed data, maps of the anomalous magnetic field and its transformations, profile plots, interpretation, and a technical report with recommendations. The exact scope and formats are agreed in the terms of reference.
What information is needed to start?
Provide the project objective, site boundaries (coordinates or a map), available geological data and deliverable requirements. Flight conditions and any required approvals are reviewed during planning.
Get a preliminary aeromagnetic survey plan for your site
Tell us about the task, the area, and the available data. We'll select the flight altitude and profile network, estimate the scope, and agree on the final deliverables before heading out into the field.
Telephone+7 (702) 420-30-00
