TGS embarks on large-scale long-offset multi-client OBN gig in US Gulf

January 15, 2026, by Melisa Cavcic

Norway’s energy data and intelligence company TGS has kicked off a new multi-client long-offset ocean bottom node (OBN) acquisition campaign in the Gulf of America (the U.S. Gulf of Mexico).

While disclosing APEX 1, said to be a first-of-its-kind, next-generation multi-client long-offset OBN acquisition program in the Gulf of America, TGS explains that node deployment began in December 2025, with acquisition expected to be completed in late Q2 2026. The firm anticipates early products in Q3 2026 and final data delivery in Q4 2027.

APEX 1 is perceived to set a new benchmark for large-scale long-offset multi-client seismic by deploying a denser node grid than previous ultra-long offset OBN programs and being designed as a stand-alone exploration dataset, without reliance on underlying streamer seismic coverage. The project is supported by industry funding.

Kristian Johansen, CEO of TGS, commented: “TGS continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in multi-client seismic. APEX 1 is the result of collaboration across the entire company, from acquisition and imaging to commercial and technology teams, and reflects our ability to listen to our customers and respond with innovative, high-impact solutions.

“At a time when efficiency, data quality, and decision confidence matter more than ever, APEX 1 demonstrates TGS’ commitment to delivering unmatched value and reinforcing our position as the leading innovator in seismic technology. We are proud of what this project represents today and excited about the opportunities it unlocks for our customers globally.”

The company highlights that this survey creates a highly flexible, future-proof exploration dataset that supports a wide range of geological objectives, opening new opportunities for operators to deploy one of the industry’s most powerful exploration tools, not only in the Gulf of America but also in other offshore basins worldwide.

This assignment is enabled by the Norwegian firm’s Gemini enhanced frequency source and leverages its deep expertise in long-offset OBN acquisition, processing, and dynamic matching FWI (DM-FWI).

The combination of dense node spacing, ultra-long offsets, and advanced imaging workflows is envisioned to deliver a step-change in subsurface resolution, velocity accuracy, and geological confidence for exploration and appraisal.

TGS has been a busy bee lately, as illustrated by the completion of a multi-client reprocessing project off the coast of Sierra Leone and the opening of an imaging center in Malaysia for multi-client projects throughout the Asia-Pacific region.