Abstract: Seismic systems and processes for making and using same. In some examples, the seismic system can include an acoustic tool configured for placement in a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation. The acoustic tool can include an acoustic transmitter unit for producing acoustic energy waveforms in the subterranean formation such that the interaction of the acoustic energy waveforms with structures in the formation can be an event that generates event signals. A receiver unit can include acoustic receivers distributed azimuthally around a central axis of the acoustic tool for sensing the event signals. The acoustic tool can determine event signal amplitudes of the event signals at each of the acoustic receivers, can determine which of the acoustic receivers has a maximum amplitude of the event signal amplitudes, and can interpolate between the maximum amplitude acoustic receiver and one or more adjacent acoustic receivers to find an azimuthal direction of the event.

Abstract: Seismic systems and processes for making and using same. In some examples, the seismic system can include an acoustic tool configured for placement in a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation. The acoustic tool can include an acoustic transmitter unit for producing acoustic energy waveforms in the subterranean formation such that the interaction of the acoustic energy waveforms with structures in the formation can be an event that generates event signals. A receiver unit can include acoustic receivers distributed azimuthally around a central axis of the acoustic tool for sensing the event signals. The acoustic tool can determine event signal amplitudes of the event signals at each of the acoustic receivers, can determine which of the acoustic receivers has a maximum amplitude of the event signal amplitudes, and can interpolate between the maximum amplitude acoustic receiver and one or more adjacent acoustic receivers to find an azimuthal direction of the event.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling seismic sources. The method and apparatus enable firing of a seismic sources at either a precise time or a precise position of the seismic source. Controlling the firing of the seismic source facilitates more accurate seismic data and a more consistent seismic source signature.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for controlling seismic source firings are disclosed. The methods and apparatus enable firing of seismic sources to increase pressure wave amplitude. Some methods and apparatus reduce ghosting and align first pressure peaks of multiple seismic sources. The multiple seismic sources may be fired sequentially according to active feedback mechanisms. Controlling the firing of the seismic source facilitates more accurate seismic data and a more consistent seismic source signature.

Abstract: In-sea seismic energy sources, deployed at or near the seabed, generate seismic waves in earth formations beneath the seabed when activated by a triggering mechanism at a precise time synchronized with seismic data acquisition by sensors deployed at predetermined locations around a well drilled for oil and gas exploration. Seismic waves generated at the seabed travel with more direct and predictable ray-paths through the earth to the sensors. Acquired data, including a precise time and location of the seismic events, are used to provide enhanced borehole and sea-bottom seismic surveys.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling seismic sources. The method and apparatus enable firing of a seismic sources at either a precise time or a precise position of the seismic source. Controlling the firing of the seismic source facilitates more accurate seismic data and a more consistent seismic source signature.