"Sometimes the traditional methods are way more effective or efficient in handling certain things. To succeed in this new paradigm, we need to build on our strong fundamentals and progress further."
Ivan Lim Chen Ning shares how data-driven methods are reshaping geophysics by challenging traditional workflows and opening new possibilities. He highlights the role of AI, machine learning, and fiber-optic sensing in improving seismic interpretation, imaging, and monitoring. His insights show how combining strong fundamentals with modern digital tools can help geophysicists solve problems more effectively.
Read the September issue of TLE about data-driven geophysics at https://library.seg.org/toc/leedff/44/9.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
> AI and data-driven tools open new paths. They help geophysicists move beyond traditional workflows to find faster and simpler solutions.
> Fiber-optic sensing changes monitoring. DAS provides continuous well data, replacing point sensors and revealing signals directly.
> Strong fundamentals still matter. Success comes from combining proven geophysical methods with modern digital skills.
GUEST BIO
Ivan Lim Chen Ning is an Earth Scientist – Fiber Optics at Chevron, where he analyzes Distributed Fiber Optic Sensing (DFOS) data and develops real-time algorithms for field applications. He applies deep learning and signal processing to improve DFOS workflows, advancing distributed acoustic sensing in the energy industry. A member of Chevron’s Emerging Leader 2024 cohort, Ivan is recognized for solving cross-disciplinary challenges and driving innovation to help secure energy for the future.
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"Sometimes the traditional methods are way more effective or efficient in handling certain things. To succeed in this new paradigm, we need to build on our strong fundamentals and progress further."
Ivan Lim Chen Ning shares how data-driven methods are reshaping geophysics by challenging traditional workflows and opening new possibilities. He highlights the role of AI, machine learning, and fiber-optic sensing in improving seismic interpretation, imaging, and monitoring. His insights show how combining strong fundamentals with modern digital tools can help geophysicists solve problems more effectively.
Read the September issue of TLE about data-driven geophysics at https://library.seg.org/toc/leedff/44/9.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
> AI and data-driven tools open new paths. They help geophysicists move beyond traditional workflows to find faster and simpler solutions.
> Fiber-optic sensing changes monitoring. DAS provides continuous well data, replacing point sensors and revealing signals directly.
> Strong fundamentals still matter. Success comes from combining proven geophysical methods with modern digital skills.
GUEST BIO
Ivan Lim Chen Ning is an Earth Scientist – Fiber Optics at Chevron, where he analyzes Distributed Fiber Optic Sensing (DFOS) data and develops real-time algorithms for field applications. He applies deep learning and signal processing to improve DFOS workflows, advancing distributed acoustic sensing in the energy industry. A member of Chevron’s Emerging Leader 2024 cohort, Ivan is recognized for solving cross-disciplinary challenges and driving innovation to help secure energy for the future.
The Role of Drones in Modern Geophysical Exploration
Seismic Soundoff
16 minutes 58 seconds
1 week ago
The Role of Drones in Modern Geophysical Exploration
"The applications of drones in geophysics have increased dramatically in the last 10 years. Drones can be said to be an established platform for geophysical measurement methods."
Drones have quickly moved from experimental tools to essential platforms in geophysics. Johannes Stoll explains how advances in sensor miniaturization, AI navigation, and regulatory clarity are enabling wide-area surveys that deliver better data at lower costs. He highlights how collaboration across disciplines and countries is driving innovation, opening new opportunities for energy transition projects and subsurface modeling.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
> Drones are now established tools for geophysical surveys, especially in magnetics and electromagnetics.
> Sensor miniaturization and AI navigation are enabling wider, more precise, and cost-effective measurements.
> Collaboration between industry, academia, and government is critical to advancing drone-based geophysics.
LINKS
* UAVs and Drones in Geophysics (1-3 December 2025): Read the summit topics, technical program, explore the virtual showcase information, register to attend, and more at https://seg.org/calendar_events/uavs-and-drones-in-the-geophysics/.
GUEST BIO
Dr. Johannes Stoll is the founder and CEO of Mobile Geophysical Technologies (MGT). With a background in geophysics and electrochemistry, he has held multiple roles across the Oil & Gas industry as well as in leading research institutions. Bringing more than 30 years of experience as an active exploration geophysicist, Dr. Stoll combines scientific expertise with entrepreneurial vision to drive innovation in mobile geophysical solutions.
Seismic Soundoff
"Sometimes the traditional methods are way more effective or efficient in handling certain things. To succeed in this new paradigm, we need to build on our strong fundamentals and progress further."
Ivan Lim Chen Ning shares how data-driven methods are reshaping geophysics by challenging traditional workflows and opening new possibilities. He highlights the role of AI, machine learning, and fiber-optic sensing in improving seismic interpretation, imaging, and monitoring. His insights show how combining strong fundamentals with modern digital tools can help geophysicists solve problems more effectively.
Read the September issue of TLE about data-driven geophysics at https://library.seg.org/toc/leedff/44/9.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
> AI and data-driven tools open new paths. They help geophysicists move beyond traditional workflows to find faster and simpler solutions.
> Fiber-optic sensing changes monitoring. DAS provides continuous well data, replacing point sensors and revealing signals directly.
> Strong fundamentals still matter. Success comes from combining proven geophysical methods with modern digital skills.
GUEST BIO
Ivan Lim Chen Ning is an Earth Scientist – Fiber Optics at Chevron, where he analyzes Distributed Fiber Optic Sensing (DFOS) data and develops real-time algorithms for field applications. He applies deep learning and signal processing to improve DFOS workflows, advancing distributed acoustic sensing in the energy industry. A member of Chevron’s Emerging Leader 2024 cohort, Ivan is recognized for solving cross-disciplinary challenges and driving innovation to help secure energy for the future.
