Western Star Resources Inc. (CSE: WSR) (OTC: WSRIF) has released results from a high-resolution UAV magnetic geophysical survey completed at its White Star Tungsten Project in Elko County, Nevada, marking the first modern geophysical dataset acquired across the property. The survey identified a previously unmapped intrusive granite body and multiple magnetic lineaments, generating new exploration targets for tungsten skarn mineralisation.
The survey was designed to acquire high-resolution magnetic data over known historical workings, identify additional prospective targets, and improve understanding of structural controls on mineralisation. The results will be integrated with rock-chip and soil geochemical data currently being collected across the broader White Star claim package.
Key findings from the survey include a broad magnetic high in the western portion of the property, interpreted as a previously unmapped extension of the intrusive granite (quartz monzonite) associated with tungsten-bearing skarn mineralisation in the district. This interpreted intrusive body is adjacent to mapped carbonate units, defining a newly identified area considered prospective for contact skarn-hosted tungsten mineralisation. Additionally, multiple magnetic lineaments have been identified, interpreted as fault and fracture zones that may have acted as pathways for hydrothermal fluids.
Blake Morgan, CEO and President of Western Star, stated: “The White Star geophysical results provide the second component of the consolidated Jarbidge-Charleston dataset and complete the district-scale magnetic coverage that the property consolidation was intended to unlock. The interpreted intrusive body identified in the high-resolution magnetic data has generated a significant new area of interest, where the contact between the granite and surrounding carbonate rocks may provide a favourable setting for tungsten skarn mineralisation.”
Four target zones have been defined for follow-up: the Central Kqm–Pzt contact immediately north of the Batholith Mine, representing the highest-priority target; a Northern Pzt body within the northern Kqm mass cut by a NW-trending magnetic lineament; a Southern limestone corridor hosting discrete magnetic features analogous to those at the Batholith Mine; and the Historical Open Pit area, where coherent magnetic character suggests contact geology continues beneath Quaternary cover.
The White Star survey was flown to the same specifications as the recently completed Rowland UAV magnetic survey, enabling the two datasets to be processed as a single, contiguous district-scale magnetic product. The combined dataset is currently undergoing geophysical inversion and will support integrated, district-scale targeting across the consolidated Jarbidge–Charleston tungsten footprint. The geophysics will be integrated with pending rock-chip and soil geochemistry results to define priority follow-up targets and inform the design of any subsequent exploration phase.
For the broader industry, this development underscores the increasing role of UAV-based geophysics in modern mineral exploration, particularly for critical minerals like tungsten. The ability to quickly acquire high-resolution data over historically worked areas can unlock new resource potential and reduce exploration risk. Western Star's approach of consolidating adjacent properties and applying consistent survey parameters to create a district-scale dataset could serve as a model for other junior explorers seeking to revitalize past-producing mining districts.
