Overview

The Data Density Maps Module creates a continuous raster showing how much geoscientific data exists across the Area of Interest (AOI). It highlights areas with dense data coverage and areas where data coverage is limited.

The output represents the count of informed data layers per pixel. Higher values indicate that more datasets overlap in that area. The map reflects data presence, not data values or data quality.

Note: Access to Data Augmentation Modules is not available on all accounts. Contact your dedicated DORA contact to learn more.

What This Module Does

The Data Density Maps Module evaluates the spatial distribution of raw data across the AOI. It stacks multiple input datasets, such as geochemistry, drillhole traces, and geophysical data, then aggregates them spatially to show where data are concentrated.

The resulting raster provides a consistent view of data coverage across the project area and highlights zones that remain under-explored.

Learn more about Data Density Maps in this overview article.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Open Data Augmentation
- Once you've completed Step 3: Select Deposit Type, you can use the Data Augmentation Modules within an experiment.
- Click Data Augmentation in the top middle navigation bar:
Select Data Density Maps Module
- Click Data Density, then click Select.
Select Shape Files
- Select one or more shapefiles that represent raw vector data. Common examples include geochemistry, geology, and structural datasets.
- These datasets are used to indicate where observations exist across the AOI. Using raw data allows the module to apply the same method across all inputs and provide a consistent view of data coverage.
Select Raster Files
- Select one or more raw raster datasets, such as geophysics rasters. Derived rasters should not be selected.
- The module evaluates the presence of raster data spatially, not the underlying values. Using raw rasters ensures the output reflects data coverage only.
Set Resolution
- Set the output grid resolution.
- The resolution controls how data is aggregated spatially when creating the raster surface. DORA displays the resolution of selected rasters to help you choose a matching size.
Set Maximum Distance
- Enter the Maximum Distance (m) value.
- This controls the buffer applied around point data when calculating density. Increasing the Maximum Distance expands the area each point influences, creating smoother density patterns. Decreasing it limits each point’s influence and highlights gaps in data coverage.
Generate Data Density Map
- Click Generate to create the Data Density map.
Review Output
- Review the generated Data Density map to understand how data are distributed across the AOI.
- Areas with higher values represent locations where more datasets overlap, while lower values indicate limited data coverage.
Save or Export Result
- Rename the output raster if needed.
- Click the output to select it, then:
  - Export to download a .zip file of the raster.
  - Add to Input Features to use the map in the current experiment.

Interpreting the Output

Use the Data Density map to assess confidence in interpretation. Areas with limited data coverage may be associated with greater uncertainty due to fewer observed inputs.

Within DORA, the Data Density map is commonly used as a reference layer when reviewing model outputs. It helps evaluate whether areas have enough data to support predictive modelling.

Overlay the Data Density map with the VRIFY Prospectivity Score (VPS) on a Prediction Map to compare target locations against data coverage. The Data Density map is used for interpretation only and is not typically included as a DORA input feature.