Seismic Interpretation

Seismic Interpretation is the process of analyzing seismic reflection and refraction data to map subsurface geological structures, stratigraphy, and rock properties. Controlled seismic sources generate acoustic waves that travel through the Earth, reflecting off boundaries between rock layers with different physical properties. Receivers at the surface record these reflections, and sophisticated processing transforms the raw data into cross-sectional and three-dimensional images of subsurface geology. Interpreters then identify geological horizons, faults, folds, and stratigraphic features within these images, building structural and stratigraphic models that guide exploration and development decisions. Geospatial Integration in Seismic InterpretationModern seismic interpretation is inherently geospatial, as every data point is georeferenced to precise surface coordinates and subsurface depths. 3D seismic volumes provide spatially continuous images of subsurface geology across survey areas that can cover hundreds of square kilometers. Seismic attribute analysis extracts quantitative measurements from the data, such as amplitude, frequency, and coherence, that highlight geological features and reservoir properties. Integration with well log data calibrates seismic observations to actual rock and fluid properties measured in boreholes. GISGISGeographic Information Systems (GIS) enable users to analyze and visualize spatial data to uncover patterns, relation... platforms display seismic interpretations alongside surface geological maps, satellite imagerySatellite ImagerySatellite imagery consists of photographs and data captured by Earth observation satellites orbiting the planet. Thes..., and infrastructure data, enabling comprehensive spatial analysis of exploration prospects. Applications and ChallengesIn petroleum exploration, seismic interpretation identifies structural and stratigraphic traps that may contain oil and gas accumulations. In geotechnical engineering, shallow seismic surveys characterize foundation conditions for infrastructure projects. In geohazard assessment, seismic data maps active faults, unstable slopes, and subsurface voids. The primary challenges include resolution limitations at greater depths, ambiguity in translating seismic reflections to specific rock types, and the computational demands of processing and interpreting large 3D seismic datasets.