1. n. [Shale Gas]

Activities associated with drilling a wellbore to intercept one of more specified locations. The term usually is used in reference to directional or horizontal wells that are oriented to maximize contact with the most productive parts of reservoirs via hydraulic fracturing or to optimize intersection with natural fractures. Geomechanical analysis of natural fractures and stresses and geological analysis of the reservoir are critical to successful well planning. Advanced formation evaluation and drilling technology support the drilling operation in real time.