f Remote Detection of Hydrocarbon Microseepage: An Alternative Exploration Tool For Onshore Exploration

Microseepage is a common phenomenon (Saunders et al., 1999) and more than 85 % of known oil and gas fields show some degree of hydrocarbon microsepage (Richer, 1982). This microseepage is associated with hydrocarbon accumulation below the surfaces, causing detectable anomalies on the surface. And these surface manifestations of hydrocarbon accumulations has long been studied and documented through surface analyses such as geochemical, Geophysical, geomorphological studies and etc. <br>The association of hydrocarbon induced surface anomalies with the tonal anomalies as seen on the satellite images has been studied quantitatively and documented. It has also been used to explain the distribution of the hydrocarbon microseepage in the producing basins, such as Tucano basin in Brazil. Successful prospecting using surface studies and remote sensing has increased globally. It has been documented in the USA, Libya, Caspian Sea region, Brazil and China with high success ratio compared to when only conventional methods are applied. The prospecting method using surface studies and remote sensing are comparatively cheaper and faster than the conventional seismic method. It also enables a wider search area and more cost-effective. It also supplements the conventional methods by providing surface “DHI’ s”, which can remarkably reduce uncertainties and risk, and subsequently increase the success rate in exploration. The current advances in remote sensing imaging and digital image processing provide plenty and vital information on hydrocarbon below the surface, if it is properly calibrated and applied.