Solis Minerals (ASX: SLM) has materially upgraded the exploration potential of its Cucho copper-molybdenum project in Peru after completing an integrated 3D reinterpretation of historical magnetic, chargeability, and resistivity datasets. The work reveals a multi-kilometre porphyry system with several high-priority drill targets that were not tested by earlier campaigns, reshaping the project’s geological framework.
The new modelling confirms that the known copper footprint represents only a fraction of a system that shows clear geophysical architecture, strong sulphidic signatures, and structural offsets capable of preserving deeper mineralised zones.
Deeply Rooted Chargeable Body Anchors the New Exploration Model
The centrepiece of the updated interpretation is a large, vertically continuous chargeable body identified in the eastern portion of the project area. Modelled to extend beyond 500 metres depth and remaining open, this feature is interpreted as a sulphide-rich core linked to the deeper porphyry source. The anomaly aligns with elevated total sulphur values observed in surface geochemical datasets, strengthening the case for significant sulphide mineralisation in the subsurface.
A major northwest–southeast structural break separates the Eastern Chargeable Body from the area where historical drilling recorded broad copper intercepts. The new model suggests that this structural block may have down-dropped the upper portions of the porphyry system, potentially preserving higher-grade copper-molybdenum mineralisation at depth.
Chief Executive Officer Mitch Thomas said: “We are excited by the results of new geophysical modelling at Cucho, which supports a number of highly prospective targets, defined by combinations of demagnetization, elevated chargeability and conductivity, with elevated surface geochemistry.”
Historical Drilling Covers Only 7% of the System
Seven historic holes drilled in the Central Zone returned strong copper and molybdenum intervals, including 169.7 metres at 0.24% copper and 178.7 metres at 0.23% copper. These results demonstrate that mineralisation is present from surface but also highlight the shallow nature of earlier drilling, which tested only a small portion of the overall system. A 2014 technical review concluded that major geophysical anomalies remained untested – a finding now reinforced by the advanced modelling.
The known mineralised footprint spans a 3-by-1.8-kilometre alteration system across the Central, North, West, and South Zones. The Central Zone represents just seven percent of this footprint, underscoring the untested upside.
Integrated Datasets Strengthen the Geological Case
Modelling shows a sharp change from more magnetic, less altered diorites in the east to intensely altered granodiorites and porphyritic intrusions in the west. This transition, combined with coincident conductivity and chargeability highs, indicates a large hydrothermal system consistent with Andean-style porphyry deposits. The pathfinder geochemistry—particularly molybdenum—correlates strongly with these zones, adding another layer of validation.
Next Steps
Solis is advancing community approvals and permitting while preparing a 2026 diamond drilling program designed to test the deeper porphyry targets. A drone-based magnetic survey will begin in December and expanded surface sampling will refine target ranking.
For investors tracking large-scale copper systems in Peru’s coastal belt, the new modelling elevates Cucho from a historical curiosity to a drill-ready system with significantly expanded geological and structural support.
