TGS and SLB launch seismic survey in Brazil's Pelotas Basin

TGS, in a joint venture with SLB, has announced the launch of the second phase of the Pelotas Sul 3D seismic survey offshore southern Brazil. The operation will cover approximately 11,200 square kilometers in the Pelotas Basin, spanning the maritime area between the Lagoa dos Patos region and the extreme south near Chuí.

The survey is scheduled to begin data acquisition in late October 2026, utilizing the Ramform Titan vessel with support from several other ships. The project aims to identify geological structures that may contain oil and natural gas, with completion expected in the second or third quarter of 2027.

This exploration follows a preliminary estimate by the Empresa de Pesquisa Energética (EPE) suggesting a potential of 9.7 billion barrels of oil equivalent in the Pelotas Basin. While this figure indicates significant geological interest, it does not represent confirmed reserves or a formal discovery. The survey will operate in waters with depths starting at 200 meters, providing subsurface insights for companies evaluating existing or future licensing opportunities in the region.