Bayan Identifies Desert Star Targets with Satellite Survey
Bayan Mining and Minerals (ASX: BMM) has received encouraging results from an advanced satellite imagery analyses over its 100% owned Desert Star Projects in the eastern Mojave Desert, California.
The survey has identified key spectral and gas anomalies across Desert Star, pointing to significant rare earth element (REE) and gold mineralisation potential.
After atmospheric correction and processed into a ten-band stack from which 16 spectral endmembers were extracted and correlated with the USGS spectral library to identify mineralogical indicators relevant with both REE and gold mineralisation systems.
The spectral analysis identified a suite of minerals indicative of both rare earth and gold mineralisation. Calcite, barite, hornblende, amphibole, and neodymium oxide were mapped across the licence, supporting the presence of carbonatite-related lithologies analogous to those at the Mountain Pass Mine.
In parallel, the identification of illite and talc is consistent with hydrothermal alteration systems commonly associated with breccia-hosted gold mineralisation.
Atmospheric anomaly analysis also revealed helium and hydrogen enrichment zones, with helium concentrations notably coinciding with illite-rich areas further supporting their potential as geochemical vectors.
These results were enhanced by a multivariate classifier trained on spectral data from the “Alice” REE outcrop at Mountain Pass, which highlighted multiple analogous spectral signatures across the Desert Star Project.
A separate gold focused classifier reinforced the presence of structurally controlled alteration zones, further strengthening the project’s dual commodity potential.
“We are excited to report the results of this advanced satellite imagery analysis, which further validates the significant exploration potential at the Desert Star Project,” Executive Director, Fadi Diab, said.
“The identification of both rare earth and gold mineralisation indicators from this cutting-edge remote sensing data strengthens our belief in Desert Star’s dual-commodity potential. The proximity to world-class deposits, including the Mountain Pass REE Mine and the Colosseum Gold Mine, adds a layer of strategic value to the project. With fieldwork set to commence shortly, we are confident that we’re well-positioned to advance toward drill-ready targets and unlock substantial value for our shareholders.”
Work Program
The company has completed initial reconnaissance mapping and geochemical sampling across the Desert Star Project, with assay results expected in 3 to 4 weeks. A similar field program is set to begin shortly subject to contractors’ availability at Desert Star North.
Additionally, a detailed geophysical survey will be conducted across both project areas, aimed at enhancing structural interpretations and refining key exploration targets.
The integration of geological, geochemical, spectral, radiometric, and geophysical data will provide a comprehensive foundation to prioritise areas for future drilling, ensuring a focused and efficient path forward for the project.
