Fraunhofer IWES and Fugro completed the geophysical site characterisation of the N-9.5 area in the German Exclusive Economic Zone in the North Sea. The survey was carried out for the German Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency between April and May 2025.
The campaign included sub-bottom profiler and ultra-high-resolution multi-channel seismic data acquisition across a dense grid of 2,349 kilometres of survey lines. The results provide an area-wide overview of the geological conditions.
The two datasets address different depth ranges. Sub-bottom profiler data images sediments and geological structures down to about 15 metres below the seabed, while ultra-high-resolution multi-channel seismic data covers sediment bodies and structures down to about 200 metres. After integrating both datasets, a preliminary interpretation of subsurface conditions was completed.
Fugro acted as the main contractor, providing the survey vessel Fugro Discovery and carrying out acquisition, processing and interpretation of the sub-bottom profiler data. Fraunhofer IWES was responsible for acquisition, processing and interpretation of the ultra-high-resolution multi-channel seismic data. Jesley Geoservices supported Fraunhofer IWES with personnel for data processing to meet the project schedule.
