This research project deals with the applications of advanced remote sensing techniques to produce layers of data to investigate the controlling factors of gold mineralization in the central Eastern Desert of Egypt. Understanding of these factors may help discovering new gold deposits. The Eastern Desert of Egypt includes basement rocks, crosscut by various structural features that are associated with gold and other mineral deposits. It is concluded here that the structural architecture and tectonic processes have played a great role in controlling, distributing and enrichment of gold and other mineral deposits.

The work on gold mineralization and lithological-structural analysis in this project has developed a technique for gold exploration through a two-fold approach. The first deals with the search for suitable geological environments for gold mineralization, where gold deposits could be found. The second approach is technical and is based on the use of data provided by newly developed remote sensing sensors. These sensors capture the detailed spectral signatures that uniquely characterize a great number of diverse surface materials. Processing and interpretation of remote sensing data have been used to prepare elaborate lithological, structural and tectonic maps for the central Eastern Desert. Such maps will be the basis for future gold exploration. Both approaches have been integrated and accompanied by field check to validate and also evaluate the structural control of such mineralization.

The results of this work will contribute to a better gold exploration strategy in the central Eastern Desert as well as in the north and south Eastern Desert of Egypt and similar regions.

On the other hand, and from the archaeological point of view, this study contributes also to our understanding of the relationship between the locations of the ancient mines and quarries and the location of rock art inscription (Graffiti), ancient temples and ruins in the central Eastern Desert of Egypt. This kind of studies is also important to document the cultural remains and to help planning geo-tourism to the Eastern Desert.