Join Us for GST’s March Technical talk.
When: Thursday, April 9, 2026
Time: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Where: Baxter’s Interurban Grill
Putting Seismic Within Reach for Small Operators: Economical, Small-Crew Seismic Acquisition in 2026
Presented By
Shawn Clark, RT Clark, Inc, Edmond, OK
Ryan Fairfield, Rhino Geophysical LLC, Bixby, OK
Seismic data has transformed petroleum exploration and development by reducing subsurface risk and providing the interpretive framework that connects sparse well control. Since the widespread adoption of 2D seismic acquisition in the late 1960s and the expansion of 3D seismic acquisition in the 1980s, seismic methods have become indispensable across much of the industry. However, many prospecting geologists and small operators continue to rely primarily on well control and geologic interpretation when generating prospects. This limited use of seismic data is commonly driven by acquisition cost, lack of seismic interpretation experience, limited access to geophysical software, and the absence of in-house geophysical expertise.
Recent advances in field technology are changing this economic and operational equation. Wireless geophone systems, compact recording equipment, and more economical portable seismic sources now make low-impact seismic acquisition increasingly practical for smaller operators and targeted exploration programs. These developments provide an opportunity to acquire fit-for-purpose seismic data at a scale and cost more compatible with smaller prospect inventories and limited exploration budgets.
This presentation will review the capabilities of modern wireless geophone systems and evaluate current options for nimble, low-environmental-impact seismic sources beyond conventional large vibroseis trucks and dynamite. A comparison of several lower-cost seismic source alternatives will be presented, followed by a detailed discussion of the design, development, and field application of two source concepts intended to improve seismic accessibility for small operators: a 500 kg weight-drop source and a portable electromagnetic vibroseis source for near-surface seismic applications.
Field examples will include 2D seismic data acquired with the 500 kg weight-drop source and compared against data acquired using a 32,000 lb vibroseis truck. Additional 2D seismic examples acquired using the 500 kg weight-drop source in combination with wireless geophones will be shown to demonstrate data quality, operational efficiency, and practical limitations. The presentation will conclude with a discussion of the economic viability of this acquisition approach and its potential role in reducing exploration risk for small operators.
We’re also looking to plan some upcoming technical talks. If you have suggestions for speakers or topics you’d like to hear this year, please email them to gstulsa@gmail.com.
Our goal remains simple: to share knowledge, exchange experiences, and enjoy time together as a community of geophysicists. We look forward to starting the year with you.
Warm regards,
Geophysical Society of Tulsa Council
