Abstract: A system and method for detecting hydrocarbon deposits includes a sensor that can measure radiation emanating from an earth surface within an area of interest and separate the measured radiation into component signals, each having a particular characteristic associated with the presence of hydrocarbon deposits. The system also includes a processor that can receive the component signals from the sensor, determine a difference between the component signals and a baseline radiation for the area of interest, and display data showing a likelihood of the presence of hydrocarbon deposits in locations within the area of interest based on the difference between the measured radiation and the baseline radiation. The processor may also generate maps of the area of interest.