Combining outcrop data derived from remote sensing data with 3-D geological model to characterize the complex structures in Kuqa area, northwest of China

Detailed outcrop data of the bed attitudes combining with the fault-related folding theory can help interpret the seismic profiles precisely according to the algorithm of the geodesic line. This paper propose a new means to acquire the structure strike and dip data from the remote sensing data, by which constrain geological structures in three dimensions using the fault related fold models. Here, the new numerical method is introduced for the first time to measure the strike and dip of bedding using the declassified high resolution images acquired by the optical satellite Corona. The attitude data derived from the remote sensing datasets are consistent with the direct measurements in the field survey in Kuqa rejuvenated foreland basin of Tarim Basin, northwest of China, and also can be used to help interpret the seismic profiles and constrain the complex structure in the foreland basin area. Therefore, the method presented will contribute a lot to the interpretation of the seismic profiles for petroleum exploration and will play an important role in the geological exploration and prospecting, especially in the area at the initial stage of the geological reconnaissance with great advantages of low expenses and rapidity.