IIT Bhubaneswar team pioneers satellite method for bauxite exploration

Bhubaneswar: A research team from IIT Bhubaneswar, led by assistant professor Ashim Sattar, has developed a satellite-enabled method to identify bauxite prospects, using it to map potential deposits across Koraput and Rayagada districts.Their work was published in the peer-reviewed ‘Journal of Geochemical Exploration’. Sattar and his team were also honoured by state govt at the Odisha Mining and Infrastructure International Conference held here on Monday.The team used advanced hyper-spectral satellite remote sensing to pinpoint likely bauxite deposit zones. The study combined satellite datasets with field investigations, geochemical and petrographic analysis, and laboratory-based spectral measurements.

Sattar said the integrated approach offers a strong first-level framework for mapping prospective bauxite deposits.In a statement, IIT Bhubaneswar said the study is the first large-area remote sensing-led assessment of bauxite zones in Odisha.Bauxite, the main ore used to produce aluminium, is vital for sectors including aerospace, construction and packaging. With the global aluminium market projected by Credit Suisse to face a supply gap by 2030, strengthening domestic raw material security has become increasingly important for India.

The IIT noted that Odisha has an estimated 2.3 billion tonnes of bauxite reserves, representing more than half of India’s total resources.The statement added that a significant share of these reserves lie in the Eastern Ghats, where conventional exploration can be slow, costly and environmentally disruptive.By applying hyper-spectral imaging, the researchers used spectral signatures — distinct electromagnetic response patterns of earth materials — to detect bauxite-bearing indicators across the two districts. Sattar said the method can provide a faster, more cost-effective and environmentally responsible option for mineral exploration in Odisha and other places.The findings are expected to help industry and policymakers identify priority exploration zones, improve resource planning and reduce environmental impacts, the IIT said.