In January of 2008, Shell began drilling an extended reach exploration well from the Mars tension leg platform (TLP). This was an ambitious undertaking with targets nearly 20,000 ft (6,096 m) away in an unexplored fault block. Because of the high inclination of the borehole and the shallow depth of the objective sands, any geological uncertainty in the targets jeopardized the success of the project.While surface seismic is used to evaluate potential targets, it lacks the resolution needed to reliably place those targets. Different seismic processing techniques are available, but the validation of each model requires additional information. True vertical depth (TVD) and true vertical thickness (TVT) synthetic ties created from realtime logging data can improve that resolution. By employing a method that uses TVT, the synthetic ties better match the seismic model allowing for updates to the well path and precise placement inside the target. Multiple velocity models are also incorporated to obtain better time-to-depth relationships and to better predict pore pressure anomalies.In extended reach wells, small issues in the beginning can escalate into more serious problems at total depth. The well path, dogleg severity, and casing shoe placements must be optimized, leaving room for the possibility of changes due to unexpected events. Bottom hole assembly (BHA) design is also a key success factor. Acquiring the needed information in realtime to update the seismic model, while also factoring in tool reliability and planning for shoe-to-shoe performance, is critical. Further, at these high angles, it is important to drill a smooth and continuous borehole to reduce torque and allow for better casing runs. This paper describes how the geological, mechanical, and economical uncertainties were identified and minimized through well planning and the use of realtime data. Specifically, this paper addresses those uncertainties, associated risks, and the methods to minimize them in the A-8 well.The authors examine the pre-well work undertaken with the seismic data and how the BHA and well plan were designed to allow for possible changes. In addition, they will discuss how all the data were used to continually update the model and reduce geologic uncertainty as the targets were approached. Answers were provided in time to update the well path, increasing the chances for success, and ultimately meeting the well objectives.