New Large Ferro West Shallow MT Resistivity Copper Target Identified Near Ferro Deposit
Southern Hemisphere Mining (ASX: SUH) has identified a promising new copper target just west of its Ferro deposit at the Llahuin Copper-Gold Project in Chile. Named "Ferro West," this target was discovered through Magneto-Telluric (MT) geophysical surveying and is complemented by surface copper oxide discoveries. The Southern Hemisphere Mining Ferro West copper target represents another significant step in the company's expanding exploration footprint.
Significant New Target with Surface Copper Confirmation
The newly identified Ferro West copper target presents compelling characteristics for copper exploration:
- 500m diameter circular anomaly extending to 500m depth
- Surface geological mapping revealed copper oxide minerals directly above the MT anomaly
- Discovery follows the recently announced "Curiosity Copper Target" (15 April 2025)
"The Magneto-Telluric survey is really adding to the understanding of Llahuin and where the large prizes are potentially hidden," commented Mark Stowell, Chairman of Southern Hemisphere Mining. "This technique has been very successful in other discoveries, so we are looking forward to testing this all at Llahuin with drill planning underway."
Technical Significance of the Discovery
The Ferro West target shows several promising technical indicators:
- Low resistivity anomaly defined through 3D inversion modelling of MT data
- Black copperwad oxides present at surface similar to those seen at South Ferro before the 2024 discovery
- Surface copper oxides were confirmed using a Vanta M series pXRF
One historical RC drillhole from 2011-12 partially penetrated the low resistivity target, encountering low-grade copper. However, this drilling was suboptimal as it went wet at 88m, potentially washing away fine copper particles. This existing 190m drillhole presents an opportunity for cost-effective deeper testing through diamond core extension.
Understanding Magneto-Telluric Surveys
What is a Magneto-Telluric (MT) survey?
Magneto-Telluric surveying is a geophysical method that measures natural variations in the Earth's electromagnetic field to determine subsurface resistivity. Low resistivity areas in copper exploration are significant because they can indicate the presence of conductive sulfide minerals associated with copper deposits.
The method is particularly valuable because:
- It can detect deep targets beyond the reach of many other geophysical techniques
- It helps identify zones where mineralisation may be concentrated
- It provides three-dimensional data to guide precise drilling targets
While MT results must be integrated with other geological information, the correlation between the resistivity anomaly and surface copper oxide indicators at the Ferro West copper target significantly increases confidence in the target. Similar techniques have been effectively employed at Northparkes copper-gold mine, another hub of mineral resource discovery.
Exploration Plans and Timeline
Southern Hemisphere Mining is advancing rapidly with its exploration plans:
- Approximately 6 drill holes required to test the 500m diameter Ferro West target
- Potential cost-effective strategy to extend the existing 190m historical drillhole into the centre of the target
- Drilling quotes being sought for both Ferro West and the deeper Curiosity Copper Target
- Companies with demonstrated capability of drilling to 2km depths are being evaluated
The company has reported that one historical RC drillhole from 2011-12 had already partially penetrated the low resistivity target, encountering low-grade copper mineralisation. This existing drillhole could potentially be extended with diamond core, offering a cost-effective approach to testing the centre of the target.
Investment Potential: Building on a Substantial Resource Base
Southern Hemisphere Mining's exploration success at Ferro West builds upon an already substantial resource at Llahuin:
- Current Measured and Indicated Resource: 149 million tonnes at 0.41% copper equivalent
- Additional Inferred Resource: 20 million tonnes at 0.36% copper equivalent
- 100% ownership of the project with no royalties or joint venture commitments
The company is systematically growing its copper-gold footprint in Chile, one of the world's premier copper jurisdictions. The new Ferro West copper target, alongside the previously announced Curiosity target, demonstrates the potential for significant resource expansion through thoughtful application of modern exploration techniques. Investors interested in strategic cash allocation should consider how such discoveries might impact their portfolios.
The Strategic Importance of Copper Exploration
Copper is widely recognised as a critical metal for the global energy transition. The metal's exceptional electrical conductivity makes it essential for:
- Electric vehicles (each requiring up to 83 kg of copper)
- Renewable energy infrastructure
- Power transmission and distribution networks
- Energy storage systems
With declining grades at existing copper mines and few major discoveries in recent years, new copper projects in stable jurisdictions are likely to be highly valued by both markets and potential strategic partners. Chile, as the world's leading copper producer, offers an established mining framework and infrastructure.
The Llahuin project's location in this premier copper jurisdiction positions Southern Hemisphere Mining's Ferro West copper target as a potentially significant development in the global copper exploration landscape. Major companies like Rio Tinto are boosting investments in copper and clean energy by 2025, underscoring the metal's importance.
Technical Insights: Surface Geology and Geophysical Correlation
The technical significance of the Ferro West discovery is strengthened by the correlation between geophysical data and surface geology. The company has reported that:
- Advanced argillic alteration with stockwork breccia was observed at surface
- Black copperwad oxides were present in the alteration zone
- These surface features sit directly above the MT resistivity anomaly
This multi-disciplinary evidence increases confidence in the target, as similar surface indicators were reported to be present before the Ferro South extension discovery in 2024.
| Feature | Ferro West Target | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| MT Anomaly Size | 500m diameter to 500m depth | Substantial target volume |
| Surface Mineralogy | Copper oxides, advanced argillic alteration | Indicates potential for copper system |
| Historical Drilling | Partial intersection with low-grade copper | Confirms presence of copper mineralisation |
| Location | Adjacent to established Ferro deposit | Geological continuity possible |
Why Investors Should Follow Southern Hemisphere Mining
Southern Hemisphere Mining represents an intriguing opportunity for investors interested in copper exploration:
- Strategic location in Chile, the world's leading copper-producing country
- Multiple high-potential targets being systematically identified and tested
- Experienced technical team applying modern exploration methods
- Established resource base with clear pathways to expansion
- 100% project ownership maximising shareholder exposure to exploration success
With copper prices supported by strong fundamental demand from electrification and renewable energy, companies developing new copper discoveries in tier-one jurisdictions merit close attention from resource investors. In fact, experts predict we're navigating an emerging metal bull cycle with increasing investment volatility and demand surge.
The upcoming drilling program at the Ferro West copper target represents a potentially significant catalyst as Southern Hemisphere Mining continues to build value at its flagship Llahuin Copper-Gold Project. Furthermore, the company's approach aligns with broader trends in mining investment across regions, where strategic exploration is driving new discoveries.
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