As part of the USGS Earth Mapping Resources Initiative, the U.S. Geological Survey will conduct a low-flying airborne geophysical survey across parts of New England from spring to fall 2025. The survey, done in partnership with state geological surveys, aims to map the region’s geology in 3D to support national critical mineral sourcing and regional issues like identifying pyrrhotite, a mineral that can weaken concrete. Aircraft equipped with passive sensors will collect magnetic and radiological data safely and without photography. The project is funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, with results to be made publicly available. They write:
The survey is part of USGS Earth Mapping Resources Initiative, a partnership with the geological surveys of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont as well as other states.
“Increasing knowledge of New England’s geologic framework will help with national priorities, like sourcing critical minerals, and regional concerns – like mapping pyrrhotite to minimize its use in local infrastructure,” said Jamey Jones, science coordinator for the USGS Earth Mapping Resources Initiative.
Pyrrhotite, a mineral found in bedrock under certain parts of Connecticut and Massachusetts, can cause long-term structural weakness in construction when used in cement.
The survey is being coordinated by the U.S. Geological Survey as part of a larger, nationwide effort to provide data and images that expand the fundamental knowledge of geology across the nation. The data collected will be made freely available to the public once complete.
During the survey, which will be conducted in spring to fall 2025, instruments on the airplane will measure variations in the Earth’s magnetic field and natural, low-level radiation created by different rock types beneath vegetation and up to several miles below the surface. This information will help researchers develop geologic maps of resources and hazards in three dimensions.
The aircraft will be equipped with an elongated “boom” that extends either in front of or behind the main cabin that houses sensors. These scientific instruments are completely passive with no emissions that pose a risk to humans, animals, or plant life. No photography or video data will be collected.
The aircraft will be flown by experienced pilots who are specially trained and approved for low-level flying. These pilots work with the FAA to ensure flights are safe and in accordance with U.S. law. The surveys will be conducted during daylight hours only.
The aircraft will fly along pre-planned fight paths relatively low to the ground at about 300 feet (100 meters) above the surface in some areas. The ground clearance will be increased to 1,000 feet (300+ meters) over populated areas and will comply with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.
Funding by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act has facilitated coverage of such a large area.
Flights will cover areas within the following counties:
Connecticut: Fairfield, Hartford, Litchfield, Middlesex, New Haven, New London, Tolland, Windham. Massachusetts: Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, Hampshire, Middlesex, Worcester. New Hampshire: Cheshire, Hillsborough. Rhode Island: Kent, Providence, Washington. Vermont: Bennington, Windham, as well as Fisher’s Island, New York.
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