Engagement 3 survey

2,602 km2 of ultralong-offset, enhanced template-matching FWI OBN data in the US Gulf of Mexico

Illuminate the subsurface in deepwater US Gulf of Mexico

SLB in partnership with TGS, are announcing a new 2,602 km2 ultralong-offset, full-waveform inversion (FWI) ocean bottom node (OBN) multiclient project in the US Gulf of Mexico. This new project extends the successful Engagement 1 and Engagement 2 footprint into the south of Green Canyon and northern Walker Ridge and is supported by industry funding.

The acquisition finished in May 2023. Data processing and imaging is being performed by SLB utilizing the latest signal processing techniques, together with enhanced template-matching (ETM) FWI on ultralong offsets, to create a step change in velocity model accuracy. Engagement 3 is the integration of OBN data and velocity model data with SLB legacy E-Octopus and Revolution survey streamer data to deliver completely new subsurface images to the industry. Final products are scheduled for Q1 2024.

Andrea Lovatini, SLB director of exploration data & geosolutions, commented, “Engagement 3 extends the successful application of this next-generation seismic technology in the central US Gulf of Mexico that is delivering new subsurface and subsalt insights. SLB and TGS are very pleased to see E&P companies supporting technology change in this geologically complex area.”

Engagement 3 data licensing is by SLB EXD.

Optimize well design, placement, and near-field exploration opportunities

The Engagement 3 ultralong-offset sparse OBN survey covers an area with established production, from the Miocene subsalt play at the Big Foot, Heidelberg and Holstein Deep fields as well as recent drilling success at the Puma complex and the Winterfell discovery. Improved imaging due to FWI updates to the velocity model will enable more effective well design and placement during field development activities, and aid in the identification and evaluation of potential near-field exploration opportunities. Multiple untested structures at Pliocene, Miocene, and Wilcox levels, along with numerous unleased blocks, highlight the remaining exploration potential of this part of Green Canyon and Walker Ridge. Improved definition of complex salt bodies and refinement of the deep velocity structure through FWI updates in this area are critical in maturing and de-risking these remaining opportunities.