Computer-processed NASA Landsat data were used as an exploration planning tool in four potential hydrocarbon-bearing areas in the United States and Israel. The project areas are located in Montana, Washington, west Texas, and the Dead Sea (Israel).

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Structural, stratigraphic, and geomorphic analyses have been performed to locate geologic anomalies. Image analysis provides a better understanding of the regional stress-strain relations for tectonic correlation.

Digital Landsat (satellite) data were processed to produce a variety of images (i.e., edge-enhanced, high pass filter, false color, and ratio). Some of the images were geometrically corrected with map controls and nonlinear deconvolution resampling techniques (coverage 13,000 mi²; 33,670 km²). This helped facilitate more detailed mapping, interpretation, and data integration. These specially processed images have been used to map surface geology, lineament systems, and tectonic anomalies in relation to subsurface geologic and geophysical data.

Project areas are defined in terms of tectonic genesis, structural trends, and hydrocarbon potential. Numerous exploration targets and several modes of hydrocarbon entrapment were identified by geologists at the TCU Center for Remote Sensing and Energy Research. This information is being used by various companies for planning their seismic programs in these frontier drilling areas.

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