Velocity model estimation using primaries and surface‐related multiples

In current seismic velocity model estimation procedures, the seismic data is supposed to consist of primaries only. Multiple reflections are considered as noise and are assumed to be removed from the data. However, in this paper it is argued that multiple reflections also carry useful subsurface information and can, therefore, be used for imaging and estimating the velocity model. Based on the relationship between total data, primaries and surface multiples, imaging conditions can be defined that include the multiples as well. In this way, multiples will contribute to a better illumination of the target horizons. Furthermore, in the case of errors in the velocity model, an update of the involved focusing operators can be formulated that includes the contribution of both primaries and multiples.