Multi-Azimuth and Wide-Azimuth lessons for better seismic imaging in complex settings

Abstract

In practice, acquisition and processing solutions to poor seismic illumination begin with an effort to compensate for gross holes in the density of target illumination using conventional Narrow-Azimuth streamer acquisition. As the complexity of the problem increases the case for Multi-Azimuth acquisition builds. Wide-Azimuth acquisition is required in the most challenging scenarios. Correspondingly, the processing and imaging technologies deployed must also improve in sophistication. Recent and ongoing global R&D efforts, complementing several large innovative projects, demonstrate that each of the target illumination concepts and challenges discussed here can be evaluated and contrasted in clear and unambiguous terms.