A brief overview of seismic resolution in applied geophysics

Abstract

The high resolving power of seismic measurements has promoted wide adoption of the seismic method in oil and gas and other industries. Studying the evolution of seismic resolution, the different factors affecting it, and the remaining barriers enables an improved understanding of where we are today and what lies ahead. The need to improve seismic resolution is best framed in the context of the interpretation questions being raised and the project stage (e.g., new frontier, appraisal, development, or production). Improvements in resolution do not depend on a single aspect of the seismic workflow but on multiple interconnected components including acquisition, processing, imaging, and interpretation methods and technologies. This paper highlights some of the key milestones in improving seismic resolution. We also conjecture on progress likely to be made in the years ahead and remaining opportunities to enhance seismic resolution.