What are the Different Types of Gravity Surveys?

At Metatek, we specialise in different types of gravity surveys. When evaluating a project, we determine the most appropriate technologies to use to effectively conduct the gravity surveys to the highest quality.

If you are looking for a geophysical exploration partner, then contact the team at Metatek today. 

What are Gravity Surveys? 

In simple terms, Gravity Surveys measure the difference in gravitational acceleration across a given area. They can measure minute variations in gravity.

The data collected from gravity surveys can be interpreted to help determine subsurface geology of the Earth. The survey measures changes in densities in a particular location and to help distinguish between different lithologies below the Earth’s surface. 

Gravity surveys are a popular way to investigate the Earth’s subsurface as it is less intrusive and faster than carrying out a manual investigation which involves manually digging into the earth.

Types of Gravity Surveys 

There are several different types of gravity surveys. The sub-surface imaging challenge you are looking to overcome will help you determine which type you need and what technology you should select. 

Land Gravity Surveys – during a land gravity survey, measurements are taken at fixed points on the ground. These can be in a grid pattern or in a series of pre-determined locations. The results from a land survey

Airborne Gravity Surveys – airborne gravity surveys use specialised aircraft housing a gravimeter or gravity gradiometer. Airborne surveys allow for faster coverage than a land survey, allowing us to reach areas that are difficult or impossible to access on land. 

Marine Gravity Surveys – marine gravity surveys are conducted on ships or over water using aircraft. Water depth and depth below seabed to imaging objective are key considerations in marine surveys.

Satellite Gravity Surveys – satellite missions like CHAMP, GRACE, and GOCE provide global coverage, allowing measurements across the entire Earth. However, their spatial resolution is limited due to the altitude of the satellites. Typically, the resolution is around a few hundred kilometres.

Technology for Gravity Surveys 

When it comes to conducting gravity surveys, it’s important to ensure you are using the correct technology and equipment. At Metatek, we have a selection of tools and a wealth of knowledge to help you gather the data you require in the most efficient and accurate way as possible.

Conventional (Scalar) Gravimeters – gravity meters are very delicate and sensitive instruments and measure acceleration due to alterations in the gravitational field. They are used to measure the vertical component of gravity. They are suitable for land, airborne, or marine gravity surveys. At Metatek, we have the highest-class of gravity meters for your gravity surveys. We pride ourselves on the quality of the data we can acquire for any type of gravity survey. 

Gravity Gradiometers – gravity gradiometers are extremely sensitive instruments that measures the spatial rate of change of the components of the Earth’s gravity field. Unlike a gravimeter, which measures the overall strength of gravity, a gradiometer is more sensitive to high-frequency spatial variations in the field. These variations in gravity arise from changes in mass distribution within the Earth, making gravity gradiometry an extremely valuable tool for geophysical exploration.

Data Processing/Interpretation – part of conducting gravity surveys is processing and interpreting the data. At Metatek, we are experts at processing gravity data to give you a clear understanding of the results. We also have a team of experienced interpreters who are experts at not only understanding what the gravity data is representing but also at integrating other complementary data such as seismic and well data.

Gravity Surveys from Metatek

At Metatek, we have a wealth of knowledge and experience in different types of gravity surveys. 

We have conducted gravity surveys in various locations worldwide and delivered highly accurate and readable results for our clients. 

For more information or to discuss your project, contact us today. 

Contact Metatek for more information

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