NOAA satellite thermal imagery interpretation of ATP 354P, western Queensland

Abstract

Thermal (warm) anomalies have been noted over a number of hydrocarbon fields overseas. To test our ability to use these anomalies as a possible low-cost exploration tool, we acquired NOAA weather satellite night-thermal imagery over two areas of ATP 354P in western Queensland to see if unusual thermal anomalies could be identified. The NOAA satellite provides temperature resolution to about 0.3 degrees Celsius. Geological and cultural features created many anomalies which were discounted after matching the imagery with published topographic and geological maps. Several unexplained anomalies remain in both the Boulia and Springvale areas, and further exploration may shed light on their significance. Further tests of the method in areas with known hydrocarbon production and simpler surface geology should provide a clearer picture of the applicability of the method. New, higher resolution satellite imagery will also provide a more detailed picture of surface temperatures.