Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data	Sep. 30, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets [Abstract]
Trade, allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 1,043	$ 2,556
Notes and other, allowance for doubtful accounts	1,501	0
Seismic data library, accumulated amortization	706,345	622,030
Property and equipment, accumulated depreciation and amortization	11,143	9,704
Intangible assets, accumulated amortization	$ 27,776	$ 23,777
Common stock, par value per share	$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Common stock, shares authorized	100	100
Common stock, shares issued	100	100
Common stock, shares outstanding	100	100