The purpose of this paper is to examine the technologies currently used in geological exploration for oil and gas.
After outlining the principles and practice of seismology, the paper describes recent developments in seismic array technology and considers the software used in analysing the data. The non‐contact technique of gravity gradient imaging is described, and some instrumentation used in quality control of seismic equipment is reviewed.
Basic seismic technology was developed in the 1950s, but modern computers extend its power and immediacy. MEMS‐based seismic sensors have the advantage of working at any tilt angle, and wireless connectivity gives access to difficult terrain. Gravity gradient gradiometry is a powerful technique that detects subsurface mass anomalies from an aircraft or ocean survey vessel.
The paper introduces seismology, and reviews oil discovery techniques for the general scientific reader.
