QinetiQ, Gravitec, Shell developing gravity sensor

June 6, 2007
QinetiQ, Gravitec, and Shell Technology Ventures are developing Scorpius, a remote sensor that builds a 3D picture of hydrocarbon reservoirs by measuring changes in gravity over time and distance.

Offshore staff

HAMPSHIRE, UK -- QinetiQ, Gravitec, and Shell Technology Ventures are developing Scorpius, a remote sensor that builds a 3D picture of hydrocarbon reservoirs by measuring changes in gravity over time and distance.

Gravitec Downhole Instruments Ltd. contracted QinetiQ for £1.6 m ($3.19 million) to fast-track the development of a gravity gradiometer for borehole applications.

Scorpius is expected to produce density information to help define the location of oil reserves and monitor depletion of producing reservoirs. Deployment is targeted for 2008.

6/6/07