Let AI interpret this ann and also why it hasn't been explored before:Key Points from the Announcement
Lodestar Minerals (ASX:LSR) has applied for an additional 3,200 hectares of exploration licenses adjacent to their existing Darwin Project in Chile. This effectively doubles their exploration footprint in the region. The Darwin Project is located about 75km from Copiapó in northern Chile, within what they describe as "the world's largest IOCG belt."
The announcement highlights:
- High-grade mineral samples from historical workings, including exceptional gold grades (up to 247g/t Au) and copper grades (up to 8.09% Cu)
- Multiple magnetic anomalies potentially associated with IOCG (iron oxide, copper, gold) style mineralization
- Proximity to significant known deposits like Candelaria (1.2 Bt @ 0.60% Cu, 0.13 g/t Au)
- Plans for imminent RC drilling (2,000m) with first assays expected in April
Why This Area Hasn't Been Fully Explored Before
Several factors likely contributed to this area remaining underexplored despite its promising geology:
1. Focus on Larger, Known Deposits
Chile's mining sector has historically concentrated on developing already-proven major deposits. The Atacama region hosts several world-class mines that have absorbed most investment attention, leaving peripheral areas less explored despite similar geological settings.
2. Historical Small-Scale Mining Without Modern Exploration
The announcement mentions "historical workings" and "evidence of mining," suggesting local miners likely exploited high-grade surface exposures for generations without systematic exploration. This pattern is common in Chile, where artisanal miners (called "pirquineros") have worked surface expressions of mineralization without the capital or technology for deeper exploration.
3. Technical Challenges of IOCG Deposits
IOCG deposits can be challenging to identify and delineate without advanced geophysical techniques. The announcement specifically mentions "magnetic anomalies" as targets, suggesting modern geophysical data has revealed potential that wasn't visible through traditional prospecting methods.
4. Access and Infrastructure Limitations
While not explicitly stated in the announcement, many areas in northern Chile face challenges related to water availability, power infrastructure, and difficult terrain. These factors can delay exploration efforts until commodity prices or technical capabilities make development more economical.
5. Fractured Land Tenure
The mention of "12 Exploration Licences" in the newly applied area suggests the region might have had a complicated ownership history with multiple small claims, making it difficult for any single company to assemble a large enough land package for comprehensive exploration.
The timing of Lodestar's expansion suggests they've recognized an opportunity based on:
- Their initial assessment of the Darwin Project
- Access to better geophysical data showing magnetic anomalies
- The current strong market for copper and gold
- Their ability to consolidate previously fragmented exploration licenses
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