Vertical Seismic Profiling and ODP
August 27-29, 1987 – Golden, Colorado
Convener: Albert Balch, John Mutter
Summary
The potential role of Vertical Seismic Profiling (VSP) and other borehole seismic experimentation within the Ocean Drilling Program (ODP) was examined at this workshop. The group achieved consensus on the following recommendations for the development of a vigorous VSP program that would significantly enhance the scientific return of ocean drilling:
- VSPs should become an integral part of ODP science because of their unique ability to provide a direct tie between the drilled section, logged properties and surface seismics; determine formation velocity structure; determine anisotropy and heterogeneity, and resolve structural images in complex setting; and predict structure beneath the drill bit.
- ZERO-OFFSET VSPs should be performed at all sites in structurally simple settings where sonic logs will also be run.
- OFFSET VSPs, oblique seismic experiments, or single offset VSPs should be performed for specialized applications in structurally complex settings.
- Substantial improvements in tools and analysis capabilities must be accomplished to ensure a viable program.
- A “U.S. National VSP Laboratory” should be established to carry out VSPs as required by the U.S. science community, coordinate development of VSP technology and analysis, and assist in specialized borehole seismic experiments.
Workshop Report (pdf)
Conveners
John Mutter, Lamont-Doherty Geological Observatory
Albert Balch, Colorado School of Mines
