ION Geophysical Corporation announced that its Concept Systems group has signed an agreement to provide Acquisition Optimization Services for all of Petroleum Geo-Services’ (PGS) repeat, time-lapse (4-D) seismic surveys during 2009. These services, to be provided throughout the year, include:

• Survey design and feasibility – Evaluating the multiple acquisition scenarios and resources that influence acquisition to ensure the appropriate balance of data quality and cost efficiency.

• Coverage modeling – Utilizing proprietary technology for advanced feather prediction to perform accurate coverage and repeatability modeling for any given sail track.

• Survey Optimization – Providing experienced in-field specialists to combine predictions and acquired data with the latest technology to dynamically optimize acquisition in real-time.

The agreement further extends the collaboration between the two companies following news of a recent 5-year, fleet-wide deal for PGS’ use of ION’s Orca command and control system, the ‘brain’ of ION’s Intelligent Acquisition [IA] portfolio. During these time-lapse surveys, the companies will work together to jointly develop advanced 4-D features to further improve data quality and survey operations.

Successful 4-D surveys acquire data with sufficient fidelity to track reservoir fluid movements over time. Due to the high repeatability requirements, 4-D surveys often incur costly and time-consuming re-shoots to meet specifications.

Concept Systems’ breakthrough real-time modeling software is designed to accurately predict the impact of various acquisition options. Experienced in-field acquisition specialists select the optimal choice at every step. The comprehensive process strives to achieve maximum repeatability, productivity, and safety – significantly reducing costly re-shoots.