Elixir Petroleum Limited has commenced a 3D seismic acquisition programme, offshore Sierra Leone.
The Elixir operator of Block SL-4, has contracted a leading international seismic acquisition provider to undertake the programme on behalf of the company.
The vessel conducting the survey commenced acquiring data on Block SL-4 on 30 March 2008 and will acquire 1,222 km2 of 3D seismic.
The Company Secretary, Alex Neuling said that this is an enlarged programme to that previously announced, although the terms of the seismic acquisition agreement are consistent with previous advice.
He said the 3D survey is designed to better define and mature the large number of significant leads and play types identified from 2D seismic data acquired over Block SL-4 in 2003.
“It is expected that on a trouble free basis, seismic acquisition activities will be completed and the vessel released by early June 2008.” The Company Secretary stated. The data acquired, Alex pointed out, will be processed in Europe by the seismic contractor, ahead of detailed interpretation studies by Elixir’s exploration team based in London.
He revealed that the undertaking of the 3D seismic survey satisfies the agreed minimum work programme for the First Exploration Period under the Petroleum Agreement governing Block SL-4. Commenting on the announcement the Managing Director of Elixir Petroleum, Andrew Ross, said:
“We are delighted to have been able to commence in-field operations so soon after becoming operator of Block SL-4. We are confident that the 3D data set will lead to the generation of high quality, drill ready prospects which should be available for farm-out to drill in the first half of 2009.