Abstract: A seismic survey area is divided into a number of “bins” of a convenient shape and size. The data from the suite of shot and receiver positions are analyzed and all shot-receiver pairs that have a common sort point (CSP) are assigned to the spatial bin in which the CSP is located. The CSP maybe a common mid-point (CMP). The data within each bin are analyzed to give a figure of merit of the adequacy of the sampling for each bin. These figures of merit are displayed in a color display that makes the inadequacies of the sampling apparent, making it possible to modify the planned acquisition geometry prior to the actual deployment of the receiver lines. Alternatively, a figure of merit is determined for the overall survey.

Abstract: A method for increasing the signal-to-coherent-noise ratio of seismic signals propagating along multi-azimuthal trajectories by abating Rayleigh wave contamination. A plurality of seismic receivers surround a nest of vibrators separated by a first uniform incremental spacing whereupon the vibrators emit chirp signals. The chirp signals are received by the seismic sensors, the received signals are stacked, auto-correlated, integrated and the integrated signal level is tabulated as a function of vibrator separation. The first vibrator separation is repeatedly uniformly expanded by a selected increment and the steps of emitting, receiving, stacking, auto-correlating and tabulating are repeated after each incremental separation. The separation corresponding to the minimal integrated signal level is selected.