Ascendant Resources partners with University of Évora for AI exploration in Portugal

Ascendant Resources Inc. has partnered with the University of Évora, Portugal, to enhance mineral exploration through the Innovative HYPERMETAL Project. This initiative aims to integrate advanced hyperspectral technology, artificial intelligence, and machine learning into traditional exploration methods. The project seeks to improve the efficiency and precision of polymetallic mineral exploration by creating a Digital Twin of the orebody, which will aid in identifying new exploration targets at the Lagoa Salgada site. The collaboration is part of a joint application for funding under the Portugal 2030 program, which focuses on new technologies and innovation. This funding will support the development of the HYPERMETAL project, aligning with the European Union's goals for sustainability and economic growth. The program emphasizes digitalization, research, and innovation, aiming to boost competitiveness and workforce skills in Portugal. By reinterpreting historical drill cores and combining traditional geochemical and mineralogical methods with hyperspectral analyses, the project will classify collected data to map ore occurrences and key lithologies. This innovative approach reflects Ascendant's commitment to embracing new technologies in the mining sector, enhancing exploration capabilities, and contributing to the successful development of the Lagoa Salgada Project. The partnership also includes an extension for EDM to acquire up to a 15% interest in the Lagoa Salgada Project, contingent upon the issuance of an Environmental Impact Statement and the completion of a feasibility study. This strategic move is expected to strengthen Ascendant's position in the market and facilitate further exploration efforts.