RSO - A New Multiparameter Stacking Operator for An/isotropic Media

Multiparameter stacking has become a standard tool for seismic reflection data processing. Although different traveltime operators exist, whose accuracy depends on the offset and reflector curvature, neither of these can account for anisotropy. We introduce the new, so-called 'recursive stacking operator' (RSO), which is derived from evaluating Snell's law at a locally spherical interface in an anisotropic medium. The operator is also applicable to isotropic media and converted waves. Examples show that the new method performs well for the whole range of reflector curvatures from nearly planar reflectors to the diffraction limit.