2D seismic design on frontier basins using potential field data, a case study in the south of the eastern arm of the East African Rift System

The 2D seismic design for a frontier basin was conducted from potential field data and available geological information using a case of a Block within the East African Rift System. The Block forms part of a southern extension of the eastern branch of the East African Rift System. The most significant structural features of the Block within this part of the rift were mapped using Airborne Gravity Gradiometry data along A, B and C sub-basin boundaries. The Block covers a total area of more than 10,107 km(2) in the central north of Tanzania. The 2D seismic lines were planned to intersect the major structures within the Block, in which a total of 1074 line kilometres from 18 seismic lines were proposed. The spatial sampling interval of 12.5 m with a minimum of two samples per wavelength was deemed adequate for a frontier basin, as would record dips well above 15 degrees limit from the minimum target of 2000 m. The relevant source spacing may be suitable if tested, and the required energy has been recorded. These parameters, though may need refining depending on the field, are proposed for a good resolution imaging and wide bandwidth recording of complex geology for a frontier basin. The seismic design provided the basis for the economic evaluation of the possible survey to be undertaken for a frontier basin. The suggested parameters allow for the flexibility of inclusion or improvement in any subsequent study related to the seismic acquisition in a Block with similar characteristics.