Potential of Airborne Hyperspectral Data for Geo-Exploration over Parts of Different Geological/Metallogenic Provinces in India based on AVIRIS-NG Observations

In this article, we discuss the potential of airborne hyperspectral data in mapping host rocks of mineral deposits and surface signatures of mineralization using AVIRIS-NG data of a few important geological provinces in India. We present the initial results from the study sites covering parts of northwest India, as well as the Sittampundi Layered Complex (SLC) of Tamil Nadu and the Wajrakarur Kimberlite Field (WKF) of Andhra Pradesh from southern India. Modified spectral summary parameters, originally designed for MRO-CRISM data analysis, have been implemented on AVIRIS-NG mosaic of Jahazpur, Rajasthan for the automatic detection of phyllosilicates, carbonates and Fe–Mg-silicates. Spectral analysis over Ambaji and the surrounding areas indicates the presence of calcite across much of the study area with kaolinite occurring as well in the north and east of the study area. The deepest absorption features at around 2.20 and 2.32 μm and integrated band depth were used to identify and map the spatial distribution of phyllosilicates and carbonates. Suitable thresholds of band depths were applied to map prospective zones for marble exploration. The data over SLC showed potential of AVIRIS-NG hyperspectral data in detecting mafic cumulates and chromitites. We also have demonstrated the potential of AVIRIS-NG data in detecting kimberlite pipe exposures in parts of WKF.