Exhibit 15.1

McMoRan Exploration Co.

1615 Poydras St.

New Orleans, La. 70112

May 10, 2010

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of McMoRan Exploration Co.:

We are aware of the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements on Forms S-3 (File Nos. 333-144496, 333-121779,) and Forms S-8 (File Nos. 333-57484, 333-67485, 333-87380, 333-90170, 333-105533, 333-115335, 333-124740 and 333-153002) of  McMoRan Exploration Co. of our report dated May 10, 2010 relating to the unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements of McMoRan Exploration Co. that is included in its Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2010.

Very truly yours,

/s/Ernst & Young LLP