Drone Mapping in Underground Environments: Safer, Smarter Exploration of Mines, Caves, and Confined Spaces

Explore how cutting-edge drone technology is transforming underground mapping, mine inspection, and confined space exploration. In this video, we showcase the power of a purpose-built drone system equipped with LiDAR, radiometric thermal imaging, RGB cameras, and adaptive LED lighting—all designed to operate without GPS in the most extreme environments.

From abandoned mine shafts to vast cave systems and narrow industrial tunnels, these drones offer safe, efficient, and high-resolution data collection.

You’ll see how we use multi-sensor stabilization, collision-resilient frames, and advanced software to deliver:

  • Accurate 3D models and point clouds
  • Detailed structural and geological maps
  • High-resolution RGB and IR footage
  • Synchronized inspection video for documentation and review

Applications include:

  • Mining: Geological mapping, structural inspections, stope mapping, ore pass assessment, hazard identification
  • Cave Mapping & Archaeology: Mapping inaccessible spaces, preserving fragile sites (digital conservation), enabling 3D documentation
  • Industrial Confined Space Inspections: Shafts, tunnels, and more

By removing personnel from dangerous environments and delivering rapid, high-quality data, this technology is redefining underground exploration and safety.

📞 Ready to transform your subsurface operations? Contact us to learn more!

Published by structuralmg

Geoscience research group focusing on structural interpretation using methods like analogue modelling, fieldwork, remote sensing (UAV based) coupled with creation and interpretation of virtual outcrops. The research group (led by Dr. Dan M. Tamas) is based in the Research Center for Integrated Geological Studies, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania and performs most of the work from the Structural Modelling Laboratory.

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