Constellation Resources (ASX: CR1) has confirmed prospectivity for natural hydrogen, helium, methane, and ethane in newly awarded exploration area SPA-0143.
This assessment comes from CSIRO examination of drill core from WHRD021 after ongoing gas expulsion from the collar was observed over an eight-month period.
Sampling revealed repeated venting with high air-corrected values of up to 97% methane and 0.24% helium.
The Department of Mines, Petroleum and Energy granted Constellation Resources preferred applicant status on 19 May 2026 for STP-SPA-0143, which adjoins the existing SPA-0119.
The company aims to conduct ground gas surveys and isotope work in 2H 2026, following the necessary approvals.
Historical Gas Indicators Support Prospectivity
The prospectivity of the region is further supported by historical data highlighting the presence of an active gas system.
Previous AMOCO drilling intersected combustible gas at approximately 300 metres depth, leading to a surface ignition event.
In October 2025, Constellation Resources confirmed the presence of hydrogen and helium at its Edmund-Collier natural hydrogen project based on preliminary testing of historical diamond drilling samples by the CSIRO.
The CSIRO also reported in the March 2026 quarterly report that their study results consistently support the generation and migration of hydrogen, helium, and associated gases within historical diamond drill holes at Edmund-Collier.
Progress on NatH2 Exploration and Permitting
Constellation Resources has been making steady progress on its natural hydrogen (NatH2) exploration.
In the March 2026 quarter, the company anticipated commencing on-ground soil gas sampling for two Edmund-Collier SPA-AOs once all permitting approvals were received.
Crucially, native title approvals have been obtained for SPA-0118 and SPA-0119, and on-ground activities for these areas are expected to be approved shortly.
The recent grant of preferred applicant status for STP-SPA-0143 on 19 May 2026 further advances the company's exploration footprint in this prospective region.
Associated Exploration Activities
Beyond its natural hydrogen efforts, Constellation Resources also has other exploration programs underway.
The March 2026 quarterly report confirmed the completion of reverse circulation drilling at the Ularring copper-gold project. Assay results for this program are pending.
The company's total natural hydrogen project area is substantial, covering 87,602 square kilometres across the Edmund-Collier, Yerrida, and Ashburton basins.
This significant footprint underscores its commitment to the emerging natural hydrogen play.
