Stelar Metals (ASX: SLB) is fast-tracking exploration at its Hill of Leaders tungsten project in the Northern Territory. The company will commence an ultra-high definition airborne magnetic survey in mid-July to map structural controls and alteration zones associated with high-grade tungsten-rich vein sets.

The survey will cover 25 square kilometres with flight lines spaced at 25-metre intervals. To maximise the utility of the geophysical data, the company has engaged external consultants to process and interpret the results using AI-powered algorithms. This technical effort is designed to refine precise drill targets before the launch of a maiden reverse circulation (RC) drilling program, which is scheduled to commence at the end of July.

"Ahead of Stelar's upcoming tungsten drilling campaign, our team is kicking off an ultra-high definition airborne magnetic survey to enhance tungsten drill targeting."

"The new airborne survey results along with our initial Phase 1 fieldwork assays as well as the Phase 2 results are all expected in the coming weeks, ahead of the start of the first ever RC drilling of this exciting tungsten project in the NT." — Stephen Biggins, Executive Chair, Stelar Metals Limited

The upcoming campaign is notable as it represents the first time bedrock drilling has been conducted beneath the site's mineralised surface vein swarms. Stelar intends to complete approximately 3,000 metres of RC drilling across three sections. Following the initial RC campaign, the project team plans to transition into a 1,000-metre diamond drilling program slated for the third quarter of 2026. These efforts form the core of the company's objective to test the depth potential of the project, which remains largely unexplored by modern drilling methods.

The geophysical data, once processed, will be integrated with pending assay results from Phase 1 and Phase 2 fieldwork programs. By combining new magnetic imagery with geochemical data, Stelar aims to sharpen its exploration strategy for the remainder of the year, focusing on the structural geology that defines the local granite-hosted mineralisation. Operations are currently on track for the late July start date.

Read the full announcement: Ultra-High Definition Airborne Survey at Hill of Leaders