First 3D transition zone seismic survey off Turkmenistan begins

April 17, 2012
RWE Dea has started a seismic acquisition program on block 23 in the Turkmen sector of the Caspian Sea.

Offshore staff

HAMBURG, Germany – RWE Dea has started a seismic acquisition program on block 23 in the Turkmen sector of the Caspian Sea.

The company is acquiring 3D data over an area of 400 sq km (154 sq mi) and 2D data, designed to assist exploration of structures in the Miocene and Pliocene at depths from 3,000-6,500 m (9,842-21,325 ft) ahead of a first planned well in 2013.

In the process, a 3D transition zone seismic survey will be performed for the first time in Turkmenistan from onshore to the shallow water region, following an extensive environmental study.

The transition zone survey is in very shallow water, mostly below 5 m (16 ft) water depth, and involves deployment of ocean bottom cables with dual sensor receivers (hydrophone and geophone).

These cables are connected to the onshore receiver arrays. The receiver spread will comprise a seamless extension from onshore to offshore, recorded with a single instrument. The seismic sources are two different airgun arrays offshore and mobile Vibroseis vehicles onshore.

Infield seismic data processing and interpretation will be performed on location.

4/17/2012