Method for collecting and generating composite trace signals with

Abstract

Arrays of seismic wave sources and seismic wave sensors are towed over an area to be refraction surveyed in such a way that source and sensor geodetic positioning is duplicated during successive source firings. A plurality of traces having these same source/reflection point/sensor geometry are gathered from those produced by each series of successive source firings at the same location and stacked to generate a new trace having improved signal to noise ratio. Positioning is accomplished by uniformly spacing each of the sensors and sources in their respective arrays, the sources being spaced at integer multiples of the spacing of the sensors, and towing both arrays behind the same boat. If irregular or rapidly changing seismic statics are not present, all traces from common reflection points may also be gathered, corrected for normal moveout and stacked to generate a composite trace having enhanced primary reflection returns as well as improved signal to noise ratio.