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Exploration Radio

#9 - A ship called CRAESTAR (part 2)

Mar 19, 2018
Delve into the adventurous journeys of the CRAESTAR as it navigated the Indonesian islands, long before GPS. Discover the vessel's remarkable exploration efforts in the Pacific, uncovering significant bauxite and sharing humorous sea tales. Explore the historical context of the program and its strategic lessons, including the shift from greenfield to brownfield exploration. Celebrate the passionate individuals behind CRA's successes, showcasing the spirit that defined the exploration journey.
30:34

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The CRAESTAR program faced significant logistical challenges in exploration, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions like aerial reconnaissance to navigate remote areas.
  • While the program did not yield major copper deposits, it strategically positioned CRA ahead of competitors by eliminating less promising territories through efficient reconnaissance.

Deep dives

Exploration Challenges and Innovations

Exploring the islands of Indonesia posed significant challenges due to the lack of GPS and vast distances over water, leading to anxious moments for the crew on the Craystar as they navigated between islands. The ship was designed as part floating exploration camp and part laboratory, which was essential for CRA's expeditions in search of copper deposits in the late 1960s. The innovative decision to incorporate a helicopter onto the Japanese trawler allowed for rapid reconnaissance and testing of areas that were otherwise inaccessible, particularly in the thick jungles of the region. This exploration was a response to the competitive landscape, where insights gained from findings were crucial for staying ahead of rival mining companies.

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