Geological mapping is the process of a geologist physically going out into the field and recording geological information from the rocks that outcrop at the surface (Geological Mapping, n.d.). It is a crucial step when talking about mineral exploration.
According to (Gandhi & Sarkar, 2016), they are several equipment used during geological field mapping:
Maps: For geological field mapping of the area chosen, a latest available geological map will be handy as a reference. Besides, topographic, physical, relief, road maps of the area of interest will be useful.
Aerial Photographs and Stereoscope: Aerial photos are very useful for the geological field work especially where large geological features like folds, faults, unconformity, volcanoes, craters, etc. are involved. Aerial photos are studied with the aid of “stereoscope” (which gives 3D view), both before the field work (for planning) and during field studies (for confirmation purposes). Wherever aerial photos of desired quality are not available, satellite imageries will be useful despite they may not possess finer details as seen in the aerial photos. Many recently launched satellites help to provide imageries of very high resolution.
Geographic Positioning System (GPS): GPS is a global radio navigator satellite system that allows land, sea, and air-borne users to determine exact location and time, round the clock, in all weather conditions, anywhere in the world. It is most applicable in surveying and mapping and is an indispensible tool for a field geologist. It is used to locate one’s position, locate lithology, structural elements, sample points, elevations, tracing the lithological contacts, etc. It helps to log geological traverses, store locations “en route.” GPS facilitates speedy geological mapping operation covering larger area within small time.
Field Camera: In addition to field notebook, camera will help to record interesting features (geological, structural, etc.), ensuring a scale. Besides, videos may also be taken. The GPS recordings of the exact location of each photo are to be recorded. These will come in handy for descriptive purposes in report writing and also for making any presentations. Many modern day cell phones also have very high precision cameras and can be used in the field.
Compass/clinometers, geological hammer, hand-held lens, sample bags, field notebook, marker pens, first aid kit are the usual accompaniments, in the field work kit of a field geologist.
The most expensive equipment of all is the “geologist’s imagination.” It took the imagination and ingenuity of earlier geoscientists to provide several models which we have today. Later day geologists have tested many of these models over a period of time and have been proved to be true. Hence, it is necessary that an exploration geologist uses the imagination when viewing and mapping geological and structural details.
Reference
Gandhi, S. M., & Sarkar, B. C. (2016). Chapter 3—Reconnaissance and Prospecting. In S. M. Gandhi & B. C. Sarkar (Eds.), Essentials of Mineral Exploration and Evaluation (pp. 53–79). Elsevier. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-805329-4.00010-7
Geological Mapping. (n.d.). Retrieved April 16, 2025, from https://www.gsi.ie/en-ie/programmes-and-projects/minerals/activities/mineral-exploration/Pages/Geological-Mapping.aspx
Image rights: https://amebc.ca/field-gear-whats-in-your-backpack/
