Media Alert: Low-level airplane and helicopter flights to scan geology over southern, central New Mexico

The flights are a collaborative effort between the USGS Earth Mapping Resources Initiative and the New Mexico Bureau of Geology & Mineral Resources, and are part of a national effort to map critical mineral resources and modernize understanding of the nation's geology.

"Earth MRI is mapping the critical minerals needed to drive the U.S. economy and bolster national security. Partnering with the state geological survey of New Mexico helps with the work of the nation -- and adds to state knowledge crucial to the resource economy, as well as water resources, and natural hazards," said Jamey Jones, science coordinator for USGS's Earth MRI.

"The Earth MRI geophysical surveys conducted by the USGS nicely complement the geophysical data being collected by the New Mexico Bureau of Geology as part of our Aquifer Mapping Program. Combined, these data will greatly enhance our understanding of the state's mineral, groundwater, and geothermal resources. We are thrilled to have such robust collaboration with the USGS Earth MRI program to bring advanced technologies and modern data to both national and state audiences," said New Mexico State Geologist Mike Timmons, director of the New Mexico Bureau of Geology & Mineral Resources.

Potential minerals in the region include antimony, arsenic, beryllium, bismuth, cobalt, fluorine, gallium, germanium, manganese, manganese, niobium, rare earth elements, rhenium, scandium, tantalum, tellurium, tin, tungsten, and zinc, all of which are on the List of Critical Minerals maintained by the USGS as essential for the U.S. economy and national security, with a risk of supply chain disruption. Gallium, germanium and rare earth elements are all used in advanced technology and defense, and China has restricted exports of each to the United States.

The survey will provide images that facilitate geologic mapping of mineral resource potential within the southern Rio Grande rift between the New Mexico-Texas alkaline igneous belt to the east and the southern New Mexico porphyry copper belt to the west, including past major mineral-producing districts, such as Hillsboro, Lake Valley, and the Organ Mountains. A geologic feature in the area remains largely unexplored for mineral resources.

The USGS has contracted with NV5, Edcon-PRJ, and Precision GeoSurveys to collect the airborne data. Their helicopter and two small fixed-wing planes will be equipped with an elongated "stinger" that houses sensors to collect data and extends outward from the front or the back of the aircraft. These scientific instruments are completely passive with no emissions that pose a risk to humans, animals, or plant life. No photography or video data will be collected. The aircraft will be flown by experienced pilots who are specially trained and approved for low-level flying. These pilots work with the FAA to ensure flights are safe and in accordance with U.S. law. The surveys will be conducted during daylight hours only. 

The flights will be based out of Belen (KBRG), Socorro (KONM), Truth or Consequences (KTCS), and Las Cruces (KLRU) airports. The flights could shift with little warning to other parts of the survey area as necessitated by flying conditions.

The survey fits into a broader effort by the USGS, the New Mexico Bureau of Geology & Mineral Resources, and other partners-including private companies, academics, and state and federal agencies-to modernize understanding of the nation's fundamental geologic framework and mineral resources.

This effort, known as the Earth Mapping Resources Initiative, includes airborne geophysical surveys such as this one, geochemical reconnaissance surveys, topographic mapping using LiDAR technology, hyperspectral surveys, and geologic mapping projects.

The USGS provides science for a changing world. Learn more at https://www.usgs.gov/ or follow us on Facebook @USGeologicalSurvey, YouTube @USGS, Instagram @USGS, or X at @USGS.