High Density Seismic Acquisition Technique Using Wireless System in Arctic Environment -North Slope Alaska

The arctic region is one of the last exploration frontiers for REPSOL; where extreme cold conditions, short seismic acquisition timeframe, ice conditions, sensitive environment and cultural respect require a very efficient and Holistic operational methodology. It was an exploration objective to acquire an area as large as possible with good seismic data quality to achieve the best cost/benefit.

This paper describes the experience of the first 3D seismic surveys acquired simultaneously in the North Slope. Operation of high channel nodal seismic recording systems required an optimum performance from equipment and personnel. Before these projects few wireless projects were executed in this area. The nodal equipment, single sensors and high productivity vibroseis techniques demonstrated to be key elements that resulted in optimum recording parameters and field geometry.

The seismic data acquired provided better spatial sampling than legacy data; resulting in improved seismic image with good offset and azimuth distribution. This combined efficiency was reflected in the cost per square kilometer.