Airborne Geophysics in Wyoming: Methods for Exploring Subsurface Geology
Doorn, Christopher J. Carter, Natalie Y.
Doorn, Christopher J.
Carter, Natalie Y.
Abstract
Wyoming’s diverse geology hosts numerous mineral resources, including hydrocarbons, uranium, rare earth elements, and precious metals, many of which have been exploited for more than a century. However, extensive mineral resources remain inaccessible or obscured by overburden—layers of soil and sedimentary rock—that hinder direct geological assessment. Airborne geophysical surveys offer a cost-effective solution by gathering extensive data on rock properties across large regions. Utilizing primarily magnetic and radiometric methods, these surveys reveal subsurface geology, guide mineral exploration, aid geologic mapping, and clarify surface processes. Since 2023, the Wyoming State Geological Survey (WSGS), in collaboration with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and private industry partners, has initiated extensive geophysical surveying efforts throughout central, southeast, and northeast Wyoming. Resulting data will significantly enhance the understanding of Wyoming’s subsurface geology, allowing improved assessment of mineral resources and geologic hazards across substantial portions of the state.
Description
Date
2025-05
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University of Wyoming Libraries
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Keywords
wyoming,geology,Medicine Bow mountains,Shirley mountains,Granite mountains
Citation
Doorn, C.J., and Carter, N,Y., 2025, Airborne geophysics in Wyoming—Methods for exploring subsurface geology: Wyoming State Geological Survey Public Information Circular 49, 13 p.