Introduction to this special section: 4D

Time lapse is defined as a technique in which exposures are taken at fewer intervals than usual so that on playback, a naturally slow process may be viewed at an accelerated pace. In our seismic parlance, 4D time lapse monitoring is a series of snapshots of changes induced in the earth, taken over periods of days to years. So what is the potential impact of seismic 4D time lapse in the oil and gas (O&G) industry? Following the doomsday prediction of having passed various “peak oil” peaks, Figure 1 clearly demonstrates the O&G industry's motivation to recover from 25% to 60% more hydrocarbons beyond primary production.