WHL Energy says initial data from Junon 3D seismic data encouraging

Australian explorer WHL Energy has announced it received the initial ‘fast-track’ data volume from the Junon 3D seismic survey acquired offshore the Seychelles by the Ophir Energy/WHL Energy JV in July 2014.

WHL says this post- stack migration volume is an intermediate product in the Pre-Stack Time Migration (PreSTM) processing of the 1,528 km2 Junon 3D seismic survey.

An initial review of the fast track data is encouraging in that the key prospects identified on the previous 2D seismic data can be interpreted and is expected that the fully processed 3D seismic volume will provide detailed definition of the Junon area features.

WHL adds that the fast track post-stack migration data generally shows encouraging seismic data quality although although the quality remains challenging in some areas due to the presence of shallow carbonate reefs.

The fully processed PreSTM dataset WHL says is now expected to be delivered during November with the interpretation of the fast track volume now underway with an initial interpretation expected to be completed during December following receipt of the fully processed PreSTM data.

WHL Energy’s Managing Director David Rowbottam says the data from the initial seismic volume of the Junon 3D seismic acquisition is very encouraging.

‘It is pleasing to see the progress with the investigation of the high potential Seychelles project continue utilising the latest technology available. While this initial seismic volume of the Junon 3D seismic data is very early stage with a lot of state- of-the-art processing and interpretation yet to be undertaken, it is encouraging that the key geological features noted in the earlier 2D seismic can be interpreted on the fast track 3D seismic volume,” states Rowbottam.

“As with our VIC/P67 La Bella seismic, the real detail will not become apparent until we take delivery of the final Pre-Stack Time Migrated (PreSTM) processed dataset, which we now expect will be delivered in November.  The follow-on PreSTM processed volume is expected to provide a significant uplift in data quality, as was experienced recently with the successful La Bella 3D seismic acquisition and evaluation.”

The Junon 3D seismic survey is designed to mature a number of prospects for drilling on the Junon trend in the east of the Ophir Energy/ WHL Energy Seychelles acreage (Junon South, Junon East and Junon Central), an area high graded by WHL Energy’s geological studies.

WHL Energy has 25 percent non-operating interest  in Seychelles while Ophir has 75 percent and is the operator of the block.