Potential of Large-Scale Magnetic Survey Using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Gold Prospecting: The Case of the Chulbatkan Ore Field

Abstract The article compares the results of ground-based magnetic surveys and unmanned aerial vehicle surveys performed in 2020 and 2021 at the Chulbatkan gold deposit in Khabarovsk Krai and its surrounding area. The analyses of the correlation between the total magnetic field induction vector and its local anomalies obtained from the two types of surveys in overlapping areas demonstrate their high consistency. The proportion of anomalies not detected by the aerial magnetic survey was evaluated. The influence of magnetic field smoothing at altitude on the results of its interpretation was analyzed in comparison with ground-based surveys. The experience of compiling a composite magnetic map based on both types of magnetic surveys for the Chulbatkan deposit area was examined. Methodological conclusions were drawn regarding the effectiveness of low-altitude surveys for various geological settings, considering the magnetic properties of the rocks, and the role of such surveys within the overall exploration complex was demonstrated.