--> ABSTRACT: Satellite Delineation of Underwater Structure: A Comparison of Architecture of Some Basins with Seasat Images, by Robert C. Bostrom; #91038 (2010)

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Satellite Delineation of Underwater Structure: A Comparison of Architecture of Some Basins with Seasat Images

Robert C. Bostrom

We compare Seasat gravity images with the architecture of some explored and partly explored sedimentary basins. In northwestern Europe, the gravity images display primary features (e.g., the Anglo-Dutch and smaller basins down to the scale of the Manx-Furness basin) and numerous secondary structural features (e.g., the Halibut Horst). Additionally, structural features are evident hitherto barely perceptible, e.g., a ridge in position to have controlled the development of anoxicity during deposition of the generative Kimmeridge Clay equivalent. In the Americas, we have examined implications of Seasat images as to the role of the Atlantic fracture zones in the development of the offshore basins of Canada, the United States and Brazil. In Australasia, we have compared Seasat data as to basinal existence and form with that of other data such as aeromagnetics and reconnaissance seis. In this region, we have compared the Seasat images with the gravity and tectonic maps prepared by the AAPG.

(1) The Seasat images, in part due to their excellent mode of presentation (color and pseudo-relief) are potentially invaluable in the reconnaissance stage of exploration; in discovering the presence of basins, for instance, they are more valuable than seis and aeromagnetics where volcanics overlie sediments. (2) In "known" basins, Seasat data are capable of revealing features hitherto inevident because these data deliver a synoptic view, permitting large-scale structural correlation. In several respects these images give the structural geologist a tool like that provided the stratigrapher by regional seismic sections. (3) Use of Seasat provides means of optimizing the layout of the most expensive reconnaissance tool, reflection seismic, in such a fashion as to identify the principal structural features at survey commencement, then to position lines to optimize intersection angles.

To illustrate, we have compared the "intelligence" situation during early stages of North Sea exploration with the situation if Seasat had at that time been available.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91038©1987 AAPG Annual Convention, Los Angeles, California, June 7-10, 1987.