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University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas, U.S.
Corresponding author: aiken@utdallas.edu
| The first 20% of the full text of this article appears below. |
Because of the high precision of present-day GPS and reflectorless laser technology, geologic information and remotely sensed data (i.e., seismic and GPR grids, wells) can be positioned accurately in 3-D and reconstructed as a virtual image. Hence, we have developed the "virtual outcrop" for applications that require knowledge about the 3-D spatial arrangements of rock types.
This article shows how we have applied digital methodology to geologic reconnaissance and in detailed outcrop mapping, including characterization of an outcrop as a reservoir analog where we merged detailed outcrop mapping with geophysical GPR survey data, wells, and stratigraphic sections.
Mapping is the foundation of the geologic sciences. The fact that specific observations are attached to specific geographic locations is critical in evaluating spatial and temporal relationships. The three basic elements necessary for a useful geologic map are location, lithologic information, and spatial or geometric relationships. Digital mapping is considerably more precise than traditional field methods and allows information to be gathered accurately in 3-D. It also allows data to be collected from remote or inaccessible locations, such as on vertical cliff faces. We have coined the term "cybermapping" to describe these techniques because they differ from typical GIS data bases which are built by digitizing hard-copy sources (e.g., paper maps).
GPS incorporates signals from multiple satellites to triangulate a position on the surface of the earth. The distinctive feature of GPS is that the location generated is "geocentric" (i.e., it is relative to the center of the earth). This means that measurements taken in one place can be directly compared to any other GPS position. The rapid development of this technology has produced significant cost reduction; an increase in capabilities; and faster, more "friendly" data reduction; in addition, it is considerably more precise than traditional field mapping in most cases. Consequently, the
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