Sub-seafloor object detection through dedicated diffraction imaging

Objects within marine sediments pose a serious risk for offshore construction projects. Their detection is difficult with conventional geophysical methods. We present here a new data acquisition and processing strategy to detect and localize boulders through dedicated diffraction imaging. The new Manta Ray data acquisition system allows the recording of seismic data that is suitable for specialized diffraction imaging at depth. Seismic data processing using beamforming and synthetic aperture allows a high-resolution localization of diffractors in the sub-seafloor. The results may be used for the efficient de-risking of offshore construction sites with regards to glacial boulder locations.