Exploration means the commercial search for oil, gas, or sulphur. Activities classified as exploration include but are not limited to:
(1) Geophysical and geological (G&G) surveys using magnetic, gravity, seismic reflection, seismic refraction, gas sniffers, coring, or other systems to detect or imply the presence of oil, gas, or sulphur; and
(2) Any drilling conducted for the purpose of searching for commercial quantities of oil, gas, and sulphur, including the drilling of any additional well needed to delineate any reservoir to enable the lessee to decide whether to proceed with development and production.
30 CFR § 550.105
Terms used in this part will have the meanings given in the Act and as defined in this section: