On Including Near-surface Zone Anisotropy for Static Correction Computation—Polish Carpathians 3D Seismic Processing Case Study

Obtaining the most accurate and detailed subsurface information from seismic surveys is one of the main challenges for seismic data processing, especially in the context of complex geological conditions (e.g., mountainous areas). The correct calculation of static corrections allows for the reliable processing of seismic data. This, in turn, leads to better geological interpretation. A seismic signal passing through a near-surface zone (NSZ) is adversely affected by the high heterogeneity of this zone. As a result of this, observed travel times often show anisotropy. The application of refractive waves and the time delay solution without taking into account the effects caused by the complex anisotropy of an NSZ does not meet the standards of modern seismic surveys. The construction of the NSZ model in mountain regions with the use of refraction may be extremely difficult, as the vertical layers can be observed very close to the surface. It is not sufficient to apply regular isotropic refractive solutions in such conditions. The presented studies show the results of taking into account the anisotropy of an NSZ in the calculations of static corrections. The presented results show that this step is critical for the detailed processing of three-dimensional (3D) seismic data collected in the difficult region of the Carpathians in Southern Poland.