This section is both highly informative and entertaining. We examine an actual hydrocarbon-producing basin, discuss how it is structured, and show surface features that provide information about underground rock layers. We hypothetically discuss how geoscientists might choose to evaluate the basin if it was a “frontier” area that had never been explored, and then discuss frontier exploration tools. Although many of these tools employ sophisticated technology, we discuss them in an easy-to-understand way, including satellite imagery, gravity surveys and magnetic surveys. There are also examples of modeling and mapping. There are a few sections where you can choose to explore on your own.

Duration: Approximately 80 minutes, depending on user pace. In three modules: 11A (31 minutes), 11B (25 minutes), and 11C (25 minutes).

Learning Objectives: Upon successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

• Relate petroleum geology topics covered in prior modules to an actual petroleum-producing basin and recognize how those topics can be applied to better understand the basin
• Retell how it was demonstrated that surface features in the area combined with geological knowledge provide a substantial amount of information about the subsurface
• Explain how pre-existing information such as geological reports, well logs, well cores and seismic data is available for many areas and is a useful way to start in a new area
• Describe how a “frontier area” may have little pre-existing data available and geoscientists would start with cheap tools that provide information over a wide area to identify the most prospective areas for using more-expensive, higher-resolution tools
• Discuss some of the tools used in frontier exploration including mapping, stratigraphic analysis, satellite multi-spectral data, seep detection, gravity surveys and magnetic surveys

Prerequisites: Module 1-10

Advance Preparation: None

Program Level: Non-technical

Format: Prerecorded narrator with supporting visuals. User controls course pace.