SkyTEM History and Legacy in Airborne Electromagnetic Surveys
SkyTEM Surveys, a global leader in high-resolution airborne geophysical mapping, has established a legacy rooted in innovation and commitment to sustainable exploration.
Our journey began with a mission: to deliver unparalleled knowledge about the earth’s subsurface to aid in groundwater management, mineral exploration, environmental assessments, and other geotechnical applications. This vision drives every SkyTEM operation today.
Our Foundational Years: The Birth of a Groundbreaking Technology
The concept of SkyTEM was first developed in 1998 at Aarhus University in Denmark.
At its core was the desire to advance the transient electromagnetic method for more efficient and accurate subsurface mapping. Originally, this method utilized hardware designed for ground-based systems. As the demand for groundwater mapping in Denmark increased, a more efficient airborne solution was essential. This necessity catalyzed the development of our first airborne electromagnetic system, specifically designed to meet the growing needs of groundwater resource management.
Establishing SkyTEM: A Leap Forward in Airborne Electromagnetic Technology
By 2003, we performed our first commercial airborne electromagnetic survey, and SkyTEM was officially founded on April 1, 2004. Early operations concentrated on groundwater aquifer delineation and vulnerability mapping across Denmark. These projects underscored the importance of protecting vital groundwater resources and showcased the system’s capacity for comprehensive, data-rich subsurface analysis.
Expanding Horizons: Global Reach and Diverse Applications
In 2005, SkyTEM extended its expertise to mineral exploration, conducting pioneering surveys in Canada and Scandinavia. Our airborne systems proved exceptionally effective for mapping mineral-rich formations, driving further adoption across the mining industry. Over the years, SkyTEM’s advanced airborne electromagnetic surveys have enabled precise exploration in various regions, contributing to more efficient and sustainable resource extraction.
From Denmark to the World: Our International Presence
Today, SkyTEM operates globally, with subsidiaries in Canada, the USA, Australia, and South Africa. Our head office in Aarhus, Denmark, remains the hub for corporate functions and shared services, while each subsidiary handles regional sales, survey planning, and execution. To maximize efficiency and local expertise, we have also established strategic partnerships worldwide, allowing us to serve clients effectively on every continent.
Comprehensive Survey Solutions for a Sustainable Future
SkyTEM’s dedication to comprehensive airborne geophysical survey services has only strengthened over time. Our offerings encompass survey planning, data acquisition, processing, inversion, interpretation, and documentation. By delivering standard data products of exceptional quality, we empower our clients to make informed decisions based on accurate subsurface models. Though we specialize in helicopter-borne electromagnetic and magnetic surveys, our vision includes the expansion of survey methods to meet evolving industry demands.
Continuing Our Mission:
Mapping the Earth’s Subsurface for Sustainability
At the heart of SkyTEM’s operations is our unwavering mission: to provide critical insights about the earth beneath our feet, promoting sustainable solutions for future generations. From groundwater conservation to mineral discovery, SkyTEM remains committed to leveraging cutting-edge technology for responsible and efficient resource management.
This legacy of innovation and service excellence makes SkyTEM a trusted partner for governments, environmental agencies, and private sector companies worldwide. We look forward to continuing to expand our capabilities and impact, delivering high-resolution, data-driven solutions for the most complex geological challenges.
