(OTC 23991)Comparison of Seafloor and Shallow Stratigraphic Conditions Mapped From 3D Seismic and AUV Data at Two Deepwater Areas, Keathley Canyon, Gulf of Mexico

摘要

This paper presents results of an integrated interpretation effort to understand seafloor and shallow stratigraphic conditions at drill sites within two prospective areas in a deepwater portion of the northern Gulf of Mexico. Datasets of different resolution were utilized, including AUV multibeam echo sounder data. These highest resolution AUV data were collected early in the life of the two projects to assess seafloor conditions. In one instance, the AUV data were acquired to comply with newly issued governmental regulations for archaeological clearance studies. As an added benefit, the required AUV data also provided a clear view of potential seafloor geological constraints giving BP and co-owners early insight into factors such as chemosynthetic community indicators, seafloor expulsion features and hardgrounds. These insights will be used and further developed throughout the life of the projects, affecting work not only during early exploration, but also in an exploration success case, through appraisal, development and into production phases as a baseline survey.