Practical seismic imaging

Abstract

Data examples clearly show that advances in seismic reflection methods over the past few years provide the interpreter with improved geologic information. The shift over the last ten years from 2-D to 3-D surveys and the shift over the past five years from processing based on surface geometry to processing based on subsurface geometry represent the principal advancements. Despite these advancements, the seismic reflection method is not mature.There exists no unified processing method to produce a 3-D geologic picture in depth directly from the data. Current processing techniques are a conglomeration of surface referenced methods (most noise suppression techniques), subsurface referenced methods (DMO, prestack migration) and in-between methods (velocity analysis). Interpreters, processors and field people must all keep abreast of the technology of our profession in order to improve our final product: greater success in both exploration and production.