Receiver array system for marine seismic surveying

Abstract

A vertical hydrophone array and a system of multiple arrays are disclosed. The vertical hydrophone array includes multiple groups of hydrophones mounted along a cable. A floatation device is coupled to the cable at one end, and an anchor is coupled to the cable at another end via a remotely controllable release. Depth transducers and position transponders are preferably mounted along the cable to provide precise depth and position indication to the surface. The release allows for retrieval of the array while leaving the anchor behind, thus reducing the potential for array damage. In the system including multiple arrays, a central positioning anchor is disclosed, through which tensioning cables pass. Each tensioning cable is connected to the float end of a vertical array, so that tension of the tensioning cable allows for control of the angle of the sensor array from the vertical. A clamp is preferably provided so that the position of the array may be held without maintaining tension thereon from the surface.