In June 2025, GoldenRAM partner and coordinator VTT (Technical Research Centre of Finland) organised a stakeholder event in the Iso-Syöte area in Northern Finland. The two-day event (18–19 June) brought together experts from VTT and two external companies, SMAPS Oy and Specim Oy, to test drone-based hyperspectral imaging technology in a real-world environment.
Exploring new possibilities with hyperspectral imaging
The tests focused on combining the Acecore Noa drone with the Specim AFX17 hyperspectral camera, which covers the 900–1700 nm wavelength range. Hyperspectral imaging captures detailed spectral information beyond the visible range, making it a powerful tool for environmental monitoring, resource management, and safety applications.
For GoldenRAM, which is developing innovative tools for safer and more sustainable mining, such technologies can help identify subtle changes in terrain or materials that traditional imaging might miss. The Iso-Syöte event provided a valuable opportunity to assess how airborne hyperspectral data can be collected and processed efficiently under field conditions.
Drone test flights underway in Iso-Syöte with the Specim AFX17 hyperspectral camera
Stakeholder collaboration
VTT’s team – Sami Siikanen, Timo Lind, Jaana Lievonen, Jussi Kangasoja, and Aleksi Leinonen – worked closely with representatives from SMAPS and Specim. The event was designed to concentrate on unique test activities and results. Publicly available information from GoldenRAM was shared with stakeholders, safeguarding confidentiality agreements.
Who joined the activity?
- SMAPS Oy – A Finnish company specialised in remote sensing sensor consultancy, SMAPS provides technical support, training, aircrews, processing, and technology sales. With experience from hundreds of aerial survey projects worldwide since 1985, SMAPS brings deep expertise in airborne hyperspectral mapping, as well as LiDAR and camera sensor technologies.
- Specim Oy – Founded in 1995 and now part of the Konica Minolta Group, Specim is a global leader in hyperspectral imaging solutions. Their portfolio includes one of the widest ranges of hyperspectral cameras covering the visible to thermal spectrum, along with spectrographs, software, and accessories.
Strengthening links with industry
This event marks another step in GoldenRAM’s ongoing effort to engage with stakeholders and industry leaders. By testing advanced technologies such as drone-mounted hyperspectral cameras, the project continues to explore how cutting-edge remote sensing tools can support safe, efficient, and sustainable monitoring of mining sites.