The use of space-based information in conjunction with ground-based geological surveys in the Eastern Caucasus

Abstract

Relevance. The use of space-based information in exploration geology significantly increases the efficiency of ground-based geological methods for searching for deposits of various minerals. The use of space- based information in hard-to-reach areas of the Earth’s surface, such as the Eastern Caucasus segment of the Greater Caucasus structure, plays a particularly important role. Aim. Analysis of the use of space-based information in identifying and tracing disjunctive faults and suture zones in the basement and sedimentary cover of the region, circular structures, lineaments, and tectonic blocks of various levels. Methods. The main research methods include interpretation of satellite images, morphotectonic analysis, structural-geomorphological analysis, the use of thermal survey data, and the analysis of geophysical and drilling data. Results. As a result of the conducted research, large ring structures such as the Tersko-Kumskaya, Sulakskaya, and central-type morph structures such as the Verkhneandiyskaya, Tsuribskaya, and Argunskaya, which are active in the modern period, as well as the Khadumsky dome, the Talginsky vault, and small ring structures such as the Akushinskaya and Mekeginskaya, have been identified. The use of space-based information in conjunction with ground-based geological methods has made it possible to identify a network of disjunctive faults and to detail the tectonic structure of the region. Major tectonic structures have been identified, including central-type ring structures, strike-slip faults, and lineamen.