core samples

The natural fractures discovered on Mars during rover missions might be so important that they are worth bringing back to Earth.

Researchers from Skoltech have trained a neural network to recognize rock samples in core box images efficiently. The process has sped up analysis by up to 20 times and made it possible to automate the description of rock samples.

Coring is essential to offshore exploration programs—but sometimes cores are taken from the wrong formation or return to surface in poor condition. One firm thinks it can solve these costly issues with a first-of-a-kind coring device that uses logging instruments that add accuracy and integrity.

Technology that allows researchers to see stress forming inside rock samples may help unravel some of the mysteries associated with fracture behavior.

Pulled directly from the reservoir rock, core samples provide critical data used to determine how exploration should proceed. Until recently, core analysis remained old school, however, there is an ongoing transition to bring the process of core description into the digital age.