** Shares of Astron Corp ATR.AX rise 16.7% to A$0.525, on track for biggest one-day pct gain since February 13, 2024

** Critical minerals miner says its Donald rare earth and mineral sands project in Victoria is expected to reach a final investment decision stage this year

** Says investment expected despite delay in regulatory approval for work plan for the project

** About 45,354 shares change hands, 2x the 30-day average

** Stock trims YTD declines to 11.8% YTD

(Reporting by Jasmeen Ara Shaikh in Bengaluru)

((JasmeenAraIslam.Shaikh@thomsonreuters.com;))