This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will investigate the feasibility of developing a novel three-dimensional seismic imaging method. The novel algorithm is based on a new formulation of the dip moveout (DMO) correction. Unlike the DMO correction which is formulated for constant velocity media, the new method called migration to zero-offset (MZO) is valid for variable velocity media. This new and innovative algorithm will produce images of three-dimensional structures while being computationally less expensive than prestack migration. The end result of this research effort is an algorithm that enables better imaging of geologic structures, and improved reservoir characterization. The technique allows for greater accuracy in delineating oil field geological structures which in turn reduces development cost and increases the amount of hydrocarbons recovered in the existing oil fields.
