Measuring velocity from zero-offset data by image focusing analysis

Conclusions

Velocity information can be successfully extracted from zero-offset data by analyzing focusing and defocusing of residual-migrated images. The results shown in this paper demonstrate that the estimation method I presented in Biondi (2009) provides quantitative information on velocity without relying on subjective interpretative criteria.

The synthetic examples illustrate how the resolution and reliability of the velocity estimates increase when the target contains reflectors with a broad range of curvatures. This insight is useful to guide the application of the suggested method to practical problems.

The New York harbor example shows that the proposed method is sufficiently robust to provide reliable and quantitative velocity information from field data. The estimated interval velocity function is consistent with available geologic information and improves the focusing of the image both in the analysis window and outside the analysis window.

Measuring velocity from zero-offset data by image focusing analysis