Results of an Integrated Helicopter ZTEM-Gravity-Magnetic system test survey over the Vredefort Dome Structure, South Africa

A groundbreaking integration of helicopter-borne geophysical technologies successfully mapped the subsurface structure of the Vredefort Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Earth's largest preserved impact craters. The 2016 test survey combined ZTEM™ (Z-Axis Tipper Electromagnetics), aeromagnetic, and airborne gravity measurements over 650 km² using nine flight lines. This approach demonstrated the feasibility of helicopter-based gravimetry while leveraging the superior depth penetration of ZTEM and aeromagnetics for regional geophysical applications. The results highlight the potential of this multi-method system to advance subsurface exploration in complex geological settings, offering new insights into impact structures and their underlying features.

Wade, T., Legault, J. M., Plastow, G., Izarra, C., & Bagrianski, A. (2016). Results of an Integrated Helicopter ZTEM-Gravity-Magnetic system test survey over the Vredefort Dome Structure, South Africa. ASEG Extended Abstracts, 2016(1), 1–4. https://doi.org/10.1071/aseg2016ab265