TGS-Nopec launches new Gulf of Mexico multi-client survey

TGS recently commenced a multi-client 3-D survey in the Gulf of Mexico. The survey, known as "Orion 3-D," is predominantly located within the "181 South" area, an area that has been off-limits to exploration until the most recent five-year leasing plan announced by the U.S. Minerals Management Service. The March 2009 Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) lease sale will be the first opportunity for oil companies to lease tracts in the area in more than 20 years. The survey will cover about 175 OCS blocks in the Lloyd Ridge OCS area. The acreage encompassed is located close to Independence Hub. TGS is acquiring the survey utilizing with the Fugro GeoBarents seismic vessel.