Rio Tinto has partnered with Australian space exploration company Fleet Space Technologies to utilise advanced space technology and AI for lithium exploration at the Rincon Lithium Project in Argentina.

This collaboration aims to develop comprehensive 3D subsurface maps across a 100km² area, utilising Fleet Space's ExoSphere solution for real-time data acquisition and processing.

Powered by Fleet Space’s satellite network, the ExoSphere system offers real-time 3D Ambient Noise Tomography (ANT) data acquisition and processing.

This approach enables the creation of detailed 3D subsurface insights with minimal environmental impact, providing Rio Tinto with the ability to make informed decisions rapidly.

By combining the latest advances in space technology, 3D multi-physics and AI, the ExoSphere system can map mineral systems in real time.

Its smart seismic sensors, equipped with edge computing capabilities, allow for the real-time transmission and processing of high-quality 3D data.

This data, reaching up to 5km in depth, is then delivered to customers worldwide, aiding in the targeting of exploration efforts.

Fleet Space Technologies co-founder and CEO Flavia Tata Nardini said: “Rio Tinto and Fleet Space share a commitment to pioneering breakthrough technologies to make net-zero a reality.

“We are proud to deploy ExoSphere’s real-time multi-physics capabilities in support of Rio Tinto’s data-driven exploration for energy transition minerals. We look forward to bringing the latest innovations in space tech, 3D multi-physics and AI to unlock new insights, predictive capabilities and sustainability benefits to advance the development of world-class operations globally.”

The Rincon is a large, undeveloped lithium-brine project in the heart of the ‘Lithium Triangle’ in Argentina.