Remote Sensing
In the early stages of frontier exploration, the analysis of remote sensing imagery data, either from satellite or airplane, plays a very important role in understanding the structural setting of the region. Combined with the interpretation of gravity and magnetic data our experienced structural geologists and geophysicist build up a structural framework of the surface and subsurface geology. This provides a foundation for planning seismic programmes in a fast, reliable and cost effective manner.
Landsat ETM data, with a pixel size of around 15m, is routinely used as the preferred imagery for onshore frontier exploration programmes when little other geological or geophysical data are available. Higher resolution imagery, such as Ikonos and Quickbird, will naturally provide high definition interpretations, but at a significantly higher cost. Such datasets are more usually used for planning pipeline and seismic line locations and environmental monitoring.
Our experienced Structural Geologists; Dr Mike Hammill and Dr Peter Kovac have over 20 years experience each in integrating the interpretations of remote sensing imagery with geological field mapping for major oil companies.
Specific expertise includes:
- Fieldwork in Sudan, Mozambique, Yemen, Uganda and Chad
- Satellite remote sensing studies in Sudan, Mozambique, Yemen, Uganda, Chad, Paraguay, Libya, Italy, Somalia, Saudi Arabia, Caribbean and Oceania
The products of a typical remote sensing study would be an ArcGIS study containing:
- Landsat imagery
- Infra-structure: settlements, wells and place names
- Structures: major and minor faults, fractures and anticlines Geological units
- Morphostructural analysis
- Tectonic and geological interpretations
