TGS, Viridien start Brazilian multi-client seismic project 

TGS will deploy its purpose-built streamer vessel Ramform Tethys, equipped with its proprietary GeoStreamer technology for high-quality 3D data acquisition. This survey commences early September and continues into October until late November.

This multi-client survey “supports the energy industry with high-quality data for exploration activities in Brazil’s equatorial margin basins,” said TGS chief executive Kristian Johansen.

“Geology in these basins share characteristics with discoveries in Guyana and Suriname, so Megabar Extension Phase 1 will represent a significant step forward in understanding geology in the Barreirinhas Basin.”

Viridien will use its proprietary time-lag full-waveform inversion and reverse-time migration imaging technologies to provide an enhanced geological understanding of this basin.

“By applying our 3D data acquisition capabilities, we are confident the project will generate strong interest and deliver substantial value to our clients’ exploration programmes,” said Mr Johansen

Viridien expects initial imaging from this 3D seismic survey will be ready for energy companies to assess in Q3 2026 and final data is expected to be available in Q1 2027.

“Megabar Extension will give our clients an early-mover advantage in a strategic area of the underexplored Barreirinhas Basin in one of South America’s most promising exploration plays, unlocking high potential in frontier areas for new exploration opportunities in Brazil,” said Viridien chief executive Sophie Zurquiyah.

“With exclusive access to the first 3D seismic data set in this area, explorers will be able to identify opportunities faster, make more confident decisions and position themselves ahead of the competition for upcoming bid rounds.” 

In August, TGS and Viridien completed an ocean bottom node (OBN) survey as part of Laconia Phase III in the US Gulf. This spans 151 oil concession blocks, expanding ultra-long offset OBN coverage in the western Gulf area to enhance imaging of the productive Paleogene play where energy companies are developing ultra-deepwater fields.  

The survey also covers the BP Kaskida field, with potential for 10Bn barrels of discovered oil and gas resources in place.

TGS said, “The surrounding acreage is anticipated to be highly sought after in upcoming lease sales for those companies targeting the Paleogene play.” 

Acquired by a TGS deepwater OBN crew, and processed by Viridien, “the data set will improve subsalt clarity to support both exploration and development activities,” TGS added. 

The Oslo, Norway-listed vessel owner expects full data sets to be available in Q1 2027.