Magnetotelluric Studies in Russia: Regional-Scale Surveys and Hydrocarbon Exploration

We briefly cover the current state of regional-scale and oil and gas magnetotelluric (MT) exploration surveys in Russia and present the findings of some studies, completed recently. These include regional-scale surveys aimed at mapping basement surface, recovering most prominent features of the sedimentary cover, and detecting crustal conductors. The study carried out in the Moscow syneclise reveal an inverse structure traced across the sedimentary formations. MT surveys in East Siberia discover interesting conductivity patterns beneath known oil fields and ore mineral deposits. Another group of studies has primary focus on hydrocarbon prospecting. The survey in Taimyr region allowed imaging the main tectonic elements and delineating the areas prospective in connection with hydrocarbons. Also, we cover the results of three surveys conducted in the salt-dome tectonic settings (Pre-Caspian depression). They provided important information on both salt and subsalt formations. Finally, we offer our view with respect to the further development of the method.