ARKeX, the provider of geophysical imaging services, has begun a BlueQube Marine gravity gradiometry survey in the Red Sea. The survey for Saudi Aramco covers three blocks off the Western coast of Saudi Arabia.

“We are delighted to have been awarded the contract from the largest oil company in the world,” said Paul Versnel, ARKeX VP Global Sales.

“This is a great endorsement for gravity gradiometry and demonstrates the technology’s value in modern exploration.”

The objective of the survey is to assist oil & gas exploration by improving the definition of the top and flanks of salt bodies within the survey area. The BlueQube gravity gradiometry data will be used to enhance geological and velocity model building to improve 3D seismic imaging.

The contract was signed in conjunction with the Shoaibi Group, a leading Saudi Arabian oil and gas technology and service provider, who will be providing commercial assistance on the project.

Surveying on the first block has already commenced and all three blocks should be completed by the end of Q2 2011, after which the vessel will be available for follow on work in the area.

Source: arkex , March 24, 2011;