TERNAMAG, a subsidiary of the GEK TERNA GROUP, is engaged in mining magnesite on Evia Island, Greece. Presently, they run an underground mine in Gerorema and an open pit mine in Kakavos, both equipped with beneficiation plants. Their exploration efforts encompass traditional methods like drilling and geological mapping. They also seek to expand operations to new deposits and surrounding areas. Challenges include proactive risk assessment for ground deformations, managing raw material waste (tailing), and handling a considerable waste production from the Gerorema underground mine and Kakavos open pit mine.

The main motivation for the participation of TERNA MAG is related with the (i) ‘modernisation’ of the exploration activities currently undertaken to expand operations at existing sites and adjacent areas based on EO services, (ii) the urgent need for remote sensing and real-time assessment of dynamic hazards).

TERRAVISION will enhance TERNA’s existing monitoring infrastructure at both underground and open pit mining sites. Spectrometer instruments will be integrated to calibrate EO-based services and expand raw material spectral knowledge. Control points installation will enable real-time assessment of deformations using satellite/aerial images. Moreover, the Ground-Based Synthetic Aperture Radar, currently monitoring the Kakavos open pit, will be adapted to monitor the underground Gerorema mine. Instruments measuring roof and wall displacements will be installed, along with piezometers at various depths in both excavation types. These advancements will elevate TERNA’s environmental, structural, and production assessments, leading to improved operational efficiency and safety.