GeoPartners has deployed the R/V GYRE vessel to conduct a Multi-Beam Echo Sounder (MBES) survey across 4,045 sq km of the Harper Basin offshore Liberia. The survey covers water depths ranging from 500 to 3,500 meters and forms part of ongoing exploration work by BluEnergies and TotalEnergies on blocks LB-26, LB-30,, and LB-31. Data acquisition began on 19 June 2026, with completion expected in the third quarter of 2026. The results will be integrated with the 3-D seismic data to improve the interpretation of potential prospects.
The MBES survey maps the seabed and helps identify features that could affect future drilling. It can detect formations such as pockmarks, mud volcanoes,, and faults, as well as features including carbonates, outcrops,, and bacterial mats. The survey also uses water column imaging to identify signs of hydrocarbons seeping through the seabed. This information can help the companies better understand the offshore geology and assess potential drilling locations.
GeoPartners is also carrying out seabed geochemical sampling through piston coring to look for evidence of mature hydrocarbons that have migrated through the seabed. The samples are analyzed for fluorescent and natural oil compounds, hydrocarbon characteristics,, and indicators of thermogenic hydrocarbons. The program also includes heat flow measurements to provide information on sediment temperatures and the thermal history of the Harper Basin.
The wider exploration program is focused on identifying drillable prospects in the Harper Basin. TGS is also reprocessing about 6,167 sq km of existing 3-D seismic data to improve the seismic interpretation and identify direct hydrocarbon indicators. The three blocks cover about 8,924 sq km, representing roughly 40% of the Harper Basin.
source: oilreviewafrica.com
African Energy Council