Fixed-Wing Magnetics Single Sensor

Introduction

Fugro Airborne Surveys maintains a fleet of fixed-wing aircraft deployed worldwide that are equipped with stinger mounted magnetometer sensors. The magnetometer sensor is typically mounted in a "tail stinger" - this keeps the sensor an average distance of ten feet behind the metal body of the aircraft.

Single sensor magnetic surveys have been conducted since just after World War II, when sensors originally developed for submarine detection were deployed to search for mineral ore bodies and to help define the depth of sedimentary basins. Sensor technology and the peripheral systems that control noise levels and positioning have improved considerably since then.

Mining Applications

Airborne magnetic measurements are an integral part of most mining related airborne geophysical surveys, serving as a valuable addition to all electromagnetic and radiometric surveys. By itself, magnetic measurements have moved far beyond target hunting and are now used for detailed geologic mapping of structure and lithology. The line spacing and flight altitude used on the survey controls the detail to which this mapping can be done. 

Oil & Gas Applications

Recent improvements in the resolution of aeromagnetic surveys have sparked a renewed interest in single sensor and gradient magnetic surveys for hydrocarbon exploration. High Resolution Aeromagnetic, or "HRAM" surveys, can be used for the detection and detailed mapping of faults and fracture systems throughout the sedimentary section, in addition to the traditional job of defining basement structure and lithology.

Geotechnical Applications

The ability to accurately map geologic structure and lithology is also very useful for delineating groundwater control structures, for civil engineering assessments of geologic stability, for earthquake fault zone definition and for many other geotechnical applications. 

Fugro Airborne Surveys strives to be a leader in the acquisition, processing, presentation and interpretation of aeromagnetic data. Ongoing Research and Development programs expand the utility and applications of this core geophysical technology.