Abstract: A method of performing a marine seismic survey is disclosed Seismic receivers, either hydrophones or geophones, are deployed in a set of parallel lines in the survey area. The acoustic energy is generated from a conventional marine seismic source towed by a vessel traveling in paths which are substantially perpendicular to the lines of receiver stations. The paths may pass over the lines of receiver stations, and may also pass outside of the receiver area. Alternative embodiments are disclosed which include sequencing of multiple sets of receiver station lines with one another, so that shots fired along different segments of the path correspond to the different sets of receiver stations. In addition, multiple sources may be towed and alternatively fired, to improve the survey efficiency.

Abstract: A marine seismic surveying system and method are disclosed. A plurality of receiver arrays, each arranged as groups of receivers (hydrophones or geophones) mounted along a cable, extend from a central location thereamong, and are connected to a platform near the central location. Systems with single and multiple platforms and their associated arrays are disclosed. The arrays each extend from the central location in different directions, preferably in a symmetrical fashion, and have their terminal ends fixed in position by way of an anchor or dynamic positioning means. Position and depth indicating instruments are also preferably mounted in each array, and at other locations in the area so that the receivers may be accurately located. The survey is accomplished by a seismic source traveling along a path which intersects the lines defined by one or more of the seismic arrays at an angle, for example a 45.degree. angle for perpendicularly deployed arrays.