Marine Exploration
Marine explorationists
conduct seismic surveys using reflected sound waves to create an image
of the underlying structures. Beginning with simple, 2-dimensional cross
sections, the technology has evolved to detailed 3-dimensional seismic
images that model the subsurface. Explorationists use the model to
decide where to drill. Currently, engineers study the changes in the
seismic images over time (so-called 4-D) to track the migration of
hydrocarbon through the reservoir. The development of this science has
resulted in increasing the probability of finding oil, and in more
productive wells. Milo M. Backus at Geophysical Services Inc., later
Texas Instruments, played a central role in GSI's introduction of
digital seismology ('the digital revolution'), and later in GSI's
introduction of high density 3-D seismic surveying. Backus later taught
at the University of Texas directing research into the extraction of
exploration information from 3-D seismic data, with an emphasis on
direct detection of hydrocarbons.
Recognizing the
pioneering efforts of the following people and companies who contributed
to the development of this technology:
Milo M. Backus
Geophysical Services Inc. (Western Geophysical), University of Texas
