Mapping and Characterization of Seamounts in the Flores Sea Using Acoustic Remote Sensing and Gravity Core Technology

This study employs underwater acoustic remote sensing technology and deep-sea soil sampling to map and characterize the seafloor in the Flores Sea to examine the seamounts and potential deposits. The Multibeam Echosounder (MBES) is utilized as an underwater acoustic remote sensing instrument to provide high-resolution ocean bathymetry data, while the gravity core technology collects sediment data in the deep sea. Considering the geological and bathymetric background of the Flores Sea, tectonic processes may have contributed to seamount formation. Seamounts offer geological conditions conducive to mineralization. Thus, the study aims to map seamounts and assess their mineralization potential in the Flores Sea. Caris HIPS SIPS software is utilized to process the MBES data, while sediment analysis uses the megascopically technique. These data are qualitatively used to characterize seafloor features and identify mineralization indicators and ultimately will enhance our understanding of seamounts and their mineralization potential. The study has successfully identified a new seamount in the Flores Sea, located 120 km north of Mount Tambora, along with the presence of mineralization. These findings are expected to significantly contribute to resource mapping. Moreover, it could improve insights into seamounts and mineralization will aid further exploration and research in marine geology.