Wave‐equation datuming

Abstract

Wave‐equation datuming is the name given to upward or downward continuation of seismic time data when the purpose is to redefine the reference surface on which the sources and receivers appear to be located. This technique differs from conventional datuming methods in the repositioning of seismic reflections laterally as well as vertically in response to observed time dips. The most interesting applications of the technique are those in which the redefined reference surface is an actual geologic interface having an irregular topography and a large velocity contrast. Wave‐equation datuming can remove the deleterious effect such an interface has on seismic reflections originating below it. Wave‐equation datuming also is applicable in seismic modeling. The computations required in wave‐equation datuming are related to those of migration. The Kirchhoff integral formulation of the wave equation can provide a basis for computation to deal with the irregular surfaces and variable velocities that are central to the problem. The numerical implementation of the Kirchhoff approach can be reduced to an efficient procedure involving summations and convolutions of seismic traces with short shaping and weighting operators.