CSIRO and China Geological Survey sign agreement

The signing follows a number of successful projects between CSIRO and CGS in the field of hyperspectral imaging.

This new collaborative relationship will assist Australian geological technologies entering or planning to enter the Chinese market. It will also help further secure China as Australia’s leading resource partner.

CGS is a non-profit government owned organisation research institution involved in remote sensing research and applications, which reports directly to the Chinese Ministry of Land and Resources.

Joint projects following the signing of the MoU will initially focus on spectral sensing for minerals exploration and environmental monitoring.

As the relationship develops, collaborative work will expand to include additional exploration technologies including geophysical and geochemical methods and mineral systems targeting.

By developing a formal relationship with CGS, CSIRO is also fostering a partnership which may allow it to access data acquired by a Chinese hyperspectral satellite expected to be launched in the near future.

CSIRO Exploration & Mining Chief Dr Mike McWilliams signed the MoU for CSIRO in a short ceremony at the Queensland Centre for Advanced Technologies in Western Brisbane last week.

“This is the latest of a series of collaboration agreements that we have signed with a number of important Chinese research organisations and universities,” Dr McWilliams said.

“It further strengthens our international relationships and allows us to share in important research being conducted internationally. I am delighted to be able to sign this MoU on behalf of CSIRO.”