Target illumination modelling for 3D seismic acquisition and processing

Conventional 3D seismic acquisition designs are cost driven and are based on simple velocity model assumptions. These designs optimize the fold and offset distribution in the CMP bins without considering the illumination of the target horizon. When the earth model is complex the choice of acquisition design significantly impacts the target illumination and the degree to which the survey objectives are met. We propose a methodology that can be used to examine the tradaoffs between acquisition geometry, target illumination and processing requirements.