Abstract: High Resolution Imagery and 3D Terrain Modeling for Seismic Surveying Planning

Marino, Dewey W. - Space Imaging EOSAT

Field based operations whose goal is the efficient extraction of ground based information have found utility in the recent advances in 3D visualization. Progressive seismic planning and surveying companies are using these new techniques to help efficiently plan surveys while simultaneously reducing overhead associated with logistical uncertainties. Virtual helicopter surveys through high- resolution digital terrain and imagery give the planner the above ground, site-specific information necessary to streamline ground operations and minimize access-related expenditures on exploration targets. Similarly if the survey work is being performed under contract, the construction of cost models for submitting a bid can be accurately assessed. Through interpretive techniques, the 3D data set can be correlated to subsurface structure and modeled to optimize shot line and bore hole placements.

This technique involves the integration of high resolution satellite imagery with engineering quality digital terrain models and virtual reality software previously developed for military planning and simulations. This desktop tool allows the user to conduct "real-time" interactive fly-throughs of "real world" data sets with GIS tools to extract survey quality geo-referenced information.

Space Imaging EOSAT is making this information commercially. These tools give the virtual surveying capability to all commercial operations planners and put the geo-referenced, global land information on the desktop.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90933©1998 ABGP/AAPG International Conference and Exhibition, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil