Geophysical imaging of subsalt geology

Abstract

About four years ago, the prevailing perception regarding offshore exploration in the Gulf of Mexico was that the shelf was all but played out and in steady decline. And, because of limited technology and experience, the deepwater was deemed far too risky for most and therefore reserved for only a handful of “deep-pocketed” majors. In fact, most companies were in an exit strategy from the Gulf of Mexico. Then, in October 1993, the Mahogany subsalt discovery changed this direction, seemingly overnight, and ignited the hopes of many who yearned for new discoveries and better times ahead.