Case Studies

Solution To build their hydrocarbon exploration model, VIASAT customized an in-house process that effectively merged surface and subsurface data. A variety of data sources were incorporated to analyze the earth's surface including Landsat satellite imagery and a Digital Elevation Model (DEM) that shows landform arrangements associated with sub-surface geological features. The datasets were orthorectified, mosaicked and processed through shaded relief techniques to create a detailed representation of the earth's land cover. Next, they integrated airborne magnetic data sources that monitor variations in the earth's magnetic field along with surface point measurements to identify deep source basement faults geometry, (rocks that exist below younger sedimentary rocks). Using ArcGIS 3D Analyst – an extension of Esri's Desktop technology – VIASAT was able to achieve a three- dimensional view of the hydrocarbon exploration model showing spatial relationships between surface landform patterns and deep sub-surface fault zones (which refer to rock fractures) along with their potential control on sediment deposition. ArcGIS was also leveraged to represent the data in a series of lineament maps that highlighted fracture patterns on the earth's surface. Geologists used filtering methods to highlight leads that would serve as target areas for detailed seismic surveys. Benefits By creating a 3D hydrocarbon exploration model, VIASAT was able to study data from 2-4 kilometers beneath the earth's surface and make connections between surface landform patterns and deep sub-surface data. As a result, they could identify connections between the earth's land cover and fractures deep within the earth's crust that date back over a billion years. Using Esri's ArcGIS technology, VIASAT created lineament- based structural maps that have uncovered new patterns in the earth's surface, never before identified on existing geological maps. For example, VIASAT's research uncovered that piles of sculpted flat-lying rocks, previously mistaken for surface fractures, likely extend deep beneath the surface and crosscut porous rocks – information that is critical to hydrocarbon exploration. The lineament-based structural maps are now used on a regular basis to optimize seismic survey planning and increase the success rates of drilling activities. Natural resources consulting firm increases drilling success rates with ArcGIS technology | Esri Canada 2 A shaded relief image map from New York State showing gas production in 2005 and relationship with interpreted geology. A 3D snapshot of the hydrocarbon exploration model developed for the southern part of New York. " 3D Analyst provides a simple method for viewing surface and subsurface data so that we can capture information to identify areas where hydrocarbons may be trapped deep within the earth." Michel Rheault Vice-President, Earth Observation Business Development VIASAT

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