Atlantico Maps 12 Rare Earth Targets at Novo Cruzeiro

Atlantico Energy Metals Corp. (CSE: ATLA) (FSE: 1CJ1) has outlined a multi-element exploration strategy at its Novo Cruzeiro project in Brazil. A March 2026 integrated review identified 12 distinct rare earth-led target areas, alongside specific opportunities for gallium and lithium. The company holds over 243 square kilometres of contiguous claims in a region designated for critical minerals, aiming to diversify its portfolio beyond single-commodity plays.

The exploration focus is driven by the convergence of geochemical anomalies, reconnaissance mapping, and geophysical data. President and CEO Bonn Smith stated that the team’s work has sharpened the focus on these critical minerals, which are essential for electric vehicle motors, wind turbines, and defense systems. The company is prioritizing follow-up programs in areas where neodymium, praseodymium, dysprosium, and terbium indicators overlap.

Rare Earth Anomalies Define Eastern Targets

The eastern sectors of Novo Cruzeiro show strong magnet rare earth potential, supported by neodymium and praseodymium anomalies. Stream-sediment sample NCZ-SS-0147 returned 1,427.05 ppm total rare earth oxides (TREO), including 284.40 ppm magnet rare earth oxides (MREO). These results identify specific drainage catchments for upstream source exploration. In the western follow-up program, 96 of 114 surface samples contained MREO levels representing at least 15% of TREO.

Near the western boundary, five sand- and silt-rich samples exceeded 500 ppm TREO across a 100-metre span. These findings extend the magnet rare earth indicators beyond the primary eastern targets. The data supports a broader exploration footprint, suggesting that the mineralization is not confined to a single structural zone but may be distributed across the project area.

Gallium and Lithium Add New Vectors

Gallium has emerged as a significant secondary target at the Rio Bravo area. All 114 follow-up surface samples returned gallium concentrations between 16 and 72 ppm. The highest result equates to 96.8 g/t gallium oxide (Ga2O3). These samples covered various materials, including soils and weathered granite, indicating a widespread occurrence of the element within the project tenements.

A southern lithium target has also been identified, supported by geochemical anomalies and an approximately five-kilometre magnetic feature. While the rare earth targets remain the primary focus, the presence of gallium and lithium provides additional avenues for resource development. The company continues to refine its exploration model to distinguish between these different mineralizations.

Exploration Strategy Relies on Integrated Data

The March 2026 review combined multiple data sources to prioritize target areas. Geochemical results were integrated with reconnaissance mapping, satellite imagery, and regional geophysics. This approach allows the company to focus drilling and sampling efforts on the most promising sectors. The identification of 12 distinct target areas reflects a systematic reduction of exploration risk.

Atlantico’s strategy emphasizes the importance of critical minerals in the global supply chain. By targeting elements used in high-performance magnets and energy storage, the company aligns its operations with growing industrial demand. The next phase of work will involve detailed mapping and sampling to confirm the extent of the identified anomalies. This data will inform future resource estimation and development plans for the Novo Cruzeiro project.