Revolutionary Satellite Technology for Bauxite Exploration Developed by IIT Bhubaneswar
Innovative Approach to Bauxite Prospecting
Bhubaneswar: Researchers from IIT Bhubaneswar have introduced a groundbreaking satellite-based technology aimed at enhancing the cost-effectiveness of bauxite exploration in Odisha.
Bauxite serves as the primary ore for aluminium, a vital component in sectors like aerospace, construction, and packaging. With forecasts from Credit Suisse indicating a potential aluminium supply deficit by 2030, securing a reliable domestic supply has become crucial for India.
The research team, led by Assistant Professor Ashim Sattar, received recognition at the 4th Odisha Mining and Infrastructure International Conference 2026 for their innovative technology.
Their findings were published in the Journal of Geochemical Exploration during the same conference.
Utilizing advanced hyperspectral satellite remote sensing, Sattar and his team successfully pinpointed potential bauxite deposit locations across the Koraput and Rayagada districts, as stated by the institute.
The research combined hyperspectral satellite imagery, field surveys, geochemical evaluations, and laboratory spectral analyses, creating a comprehensive framework for initial mapping of bauxite deposits. This study represents the first extensive remote sensing assessment of bauxite areas in Odisha.
Odisha is home to approximately 2.3 billion tonnes of bauxite, which constitutes over half of India's total reserves. However, much of this mineral is located in the difficult terrains of the Eastern Ghats, making traditional exploration methods costly, time-consuming, and environmentally taxing, according to mining experts.
By employing hyperspectral imaging, the IIT Bhubaneswar team utilized the concept of spectral signatures—unique electromagnetic response patterns of earth materials—to identify potential bauxite-rich zones in the two districts. This method promises a rapid, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution for sustainable mineral exploration in Odisha and beyond.
The implications of these findings are significant for the mining sector and policymakers, aiding in the identification of prospective bauxite exploration areas, optimizing resource use, and reducing environmental impacts. This initiative sets the stage for advanced mineral mapping and sustainable resource management in Odisha.