Analysis of transportation access and geological knowledge based on GIS technologies for exploration planning in Altai-Sayany fold area

The paper assesses transportation access for various regions of the southwestern Altai-Sayany fold area (ASFA) and analyzes geological knowledge about gold based on spatial data analysis using GIS technologies. This work is based on our technique. This technique allowed to convert qualitative concepts (access, knowledge and development) into quantitative indicators useful to compare various clusters within one region as well as various regions. The main constituents of transportation access (distance from roads, topography slope and terrain trafficability) are characterized in detail. The main computation methods and design characteristic visualization techniques are presented. Quantification of gold knowledge density allowed validation of its diversity and recognition of underexplored areas. Based on complexing the obtained digital data, the paper shows that underexplored gold districts and clusters are identified in the southern, less accessible part. Correlation of trafficability and geological knowledge is revealed; these indicators are found to affect metallogenic zoning concepts. The conclusion is validated that the current ideas about ASFA gold potential and metallogenic zoning are determined by both geology and trafficability, and the current geological know-ledge level.