If you see a low-flying aircraft in Downeast or northern Maine this November, it very well could be analyzing and mapping the state’s geology.

The U.S. Geological Survey announced plans to map a chunk of northeastern Maine on Tuesday as part of its Earth Mapping Resources Initiative.

The flights are to take place from early November to whenever snow cover hinders the gathering of results, the USGS said in a release, and their findings will help geologists pinpoint where to focus future ground-level mapping operations.

The survey area encompasses all of Washington County, as well as most of Penobscot and Hancock counties, the eastern half of Aroostook County, and a sliver of southeast Piscataquis County.

“Partnership with state surveys helps accomplish national goals like mapping the critical minerals the U.S. needs. Researchers at the Maine Geological Survey are helping with the work of the nation — and adding to state knowledge crucial to water resources, hazards and the resource economy,” said Jamey Jones, science coordinator for the U.S. Geological Survey’s Earth Mapping Resources Initiative.

Potential minerals in the region include antimony, cobalt, copper, gallium, germanium, manganese, zinc, nickel, platinum group elements, tine, and tungsten, according to the USGS.

“This modern high-resolution geophysical survey will cross five different geologic terranes and their boundaries, giving us valuable information on Maine’s geologic history and a road map for moving forward with detailed mapping of the Downeast region,” Amber Whittaker, senior geologist with the Maine Geological Survey, said in a statement on Tuesday.

Flights will initially be based out of Presque Isle Northern Maine Airport, but may shift due to varying weather conditions, according to USGS. After flights cease for the winter, they may resume as snow melts next spring if additional data is needed.