A system includes a processor and a memory. The memory includes instructions that are executable by the processor to access training data of a modern feature of interest from direct observations, remotely determined data, or a combination thereof. The instructions are also executable to compile parameter data from at least one model simulation that impacts the modern feature of interest. The instructions are executable to train a machine-learning model to generate a predictive model that matches the training data of the modern feature of interest using the compiled parameter data as input. Furthermore, the instructions are executable to predict a feature of interest in a past time period using the predictive model and at least one historical model simulation that impacts the feature of interest. Additionally, the instructions are executable to execute a processing operation for facilitating hydrocarbon exploration based on the predicted feature of interest from the predictive model.