TGS has been given the green light by Mexico's Comisión Nacional de Hidrocarburos (CNH) to start acquiring multibeam, coring and geochemical analysis data over about 600,000sq km in Mexican waters.
This project will cover the entire deepwater area of the offshore sector of Mexico, including world class producing trends such as the Perdido Fold Belt and Campeche Bay.
The project will be conducted in conjunction with the 186,000km TGS Gigante seismic survey which is currently 12% (>22,000 kms) complete.
The multibeam data will be acquired by Fugro using vessels equipped with the latest generation of multibeam sonar equipment. Multibeam bathymetry and backscatter data will be used to identify possible oil and gas seep targets for sediment sampling. Over 1000 navigated piston cores will be collected by TDI Brooks International and detailed geochemical analysis will be performed.
"We are pleased to create a portfolio that combines all important geoscience data into one integrated package that can be used to better aid exploration efforts in this region. These data have value from the earliest stages of reconnaissance through the end of the development program. It is a complementary addition to our Gigante regional 2D seismic program that is currently being acquired. Our customers have shown considerable interest in these projects," commented Katja Akentieva, Senior VP Western Hemisphere, TGS.
TGS will start acquisition of multibeam and coring data in 3Q 2015 subject to receiving environmental impact resolution from the Mexican Authorities, with expected completion in early 4Q 2016.
This survey is supported by industry funding.