Efficient 3D seismic data acquisition in deep water

Abstract

Traditionally, large areas have been imaged with 2D seismic data, and 3D imaging has been employed over smaller targeted areas. In many areas, however, 3D seismic imaging is required to provide useful images of the subsurface and accurate velocity models. Still, 3D can be cost prohibitive in some instances. To alleviate cost and time requirements, the authors employed a dual-source vessel acquisition configuration, which doubles the acquisition rate and significantly reduces cost. The acquisition configuration is somewhat unconventional and at first look may seem incapable of producing high-quality data. However, it is shown that, with the help of modern processing techniques, this efficient configuration produces images with the same quality as a conventional configuration.