Complete Wavefield Imaging Using Broadband Dual-sensor Streamer Data

Abstract

When considering shallow water towed streamer data, developing an accurate velocity model using primary reflections alone is challenging and often only allows an average velocity of the near surface interval to be defined. For robust reservoir imaging, it is essential to resolve near surface velocity heterogeneity, thus the conventional VMB approach, which uses data acquired with standard streamers, is compromised. A methodology for VMB utilising the complete wavefield has been presented. The foundation of the method is dual-sensor towed streamer data which allows separation of the recorded wavefield and is thus the technology enabler for an advanced imaging workflow. Complete wavefield imaging delivers a high-resolution velocity model of the near surface which in a conventional approach typically remains unresolved. The more accurate near surface velocity model and subsequent imaging improves the accuracy and confidence of the imaging at reservoir levels.