The ExoSphere system offers real-time 3D Ambient Noise Tomography (ANT) data acquisition and processing. Credit: Herbert Aust from Pixabay.

Rio Tinto has partnered with Australian space exploration company Fleet Space Technologies to utilise advanced space technology and AI for lithium exploration at the Rincon Lithium Project in Argentina.

This collaboration aims to develop comprehensive 3D subsurface maps across a 100km² area, utilising Fleet Space’s ExoSphere solution for real-time data acquisition and processing.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Go deeper with GlobalData

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

Powered by Fleet Space’s satellite network, the ExoSphere system offers real-time 3D Ambient Noise Tomography (ANT) data acquisition and processing.

This approach enables the creation of detailed 3D subsurface insights with minimal environmental impact, providing Rio Tinto with the ability to make informed decisions rapidly.

By combining the latest advances in space technology, 3D multi-physics and AI, the ExoSphere system can map mineral systems in real time.

Its smart seismic sensors, equipped with edge computing capabilities, allow for the real-time transmission and processing of high-quality 3D data.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

This data, reaching up to 5km in depth, is then delivered to customers worldwide, aiding in the targeting of exploration efforts.

Fleet Space Technologies co-founder and CEO Flavia Tata Nardini said: “Rio Tinto and Fleet Space share a commitment to pioneering breakthrough technologies to make net-zero a reality.

“We are proud to deploy ExoSphere’s real-time multi-physics capabilities in support of Rio Tinto’s data-driven exploration for energy transition minerals. We look forward to bringing the latest innovations in space tech, 3D multi-physics and AI to unlock new insights, predictive capabilities and sustainability benefits to advance the development of world-class operations globally.”

The Rincon is a large, undeveloped lithium-brine project in the heart of the ‘Lithium Triangle’ in Argentina.

Mining Technology Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Mining Technology Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact

Excellence in Action
Awarded the 2025 Mining Technology Excellence Innovation Award for Equipment Diagnostics, Razor Labs’ DataMind AI™ platform turns sensor data and imagery into actionable maintenance insights, avoiding hundreds of thousands of dollars in downtime. Find out how leading mines are using DataMind AI™ to keep critical assets running.

Discover the Impact