Rhino Resources confirmed further evidence of oil continuity in the Orange Basin after completing the evaluation of the Capricornus-1A well in Block 2914, off the coast of Namibia. The result strengthens the technical interpretation of the Capricornus discovery and provides crucial information for the next phase of drilling at PEL 85.
The appraisal well was drilled in the eastern part of the Capricornus fairway, an area associated with the previous Capricornus-1X discovery. According to data released by the company, Capricornus-1A encountered a 46-meter gross reservoir interval and allowed for the recovery of representative core samples from the main section of the field.
Pressure data connects Capricornus-1A with Capricornus-1X
Furthermore, preliminary bottomhole pressure analysis indicates the presence of an oil-bearing sandstone reservoir in pressure communication with the system discovered in Capricornus-1X. This finding is relevant because it helps define the continuity of the oil reservoir within the Capricornus accumulation.
The campaign also included wireline logging and formation evaluation, information that will be integrated with data from previous wells in PEL 85. With this, the joint venture seeks to improve the geological model of the area and reduce uncertainties before new drilling.
Offshore drilling in Namibian deep waters
Capricornus-1A was initiated on May 2, 2026, using the drillship Saipem 12000, in 1,285 meters of water. The well reached a total depth of 4,818 meters MD on June 11, 2026, and operations were safely completed.
PEL 85 is operated by Rhino Resources Namibia Ltd with a 42.5% stake. The company shares the license with Azule Energy, also with 42.5%, NAMCOR Namibia with 10%, and Korres Investments with 5%.
More data to assess the potential of PEL 85
Furthermore, Rhino indicated that Capricornus-1A also provided information on deeper geological intervals not found in Capricornus-1X. This data could also help to better understand how subsurface structures control exploration fairways in the license area.
The update positions the Capricornus accumulation as one of the key technical focuses of the exploration and appraisal campaign in the Orange Basin. The next step will be to integrate core, pressure, and electrical logs to define new appraisal targets in the block.
Source: Rhino Resources Ltd via Linkedln
Photo: Shutterstock
