Seismic Soundoff

"Reservoir characterization has evolved beyond oil and gas. It’s now central to our clean energy future." In this episode, Andrew Geary speaks with Satinder Chopra and Heather Bedle, guest editors for December’s The Leading Edge special section on reservoir characterization. They explore how this critical topic is transforming as geophysics expands its role in the global energy transition. From carbon storage to geothermal and hydrogen solutions, this episode highlights why reservoir characterization is at the heart of our clean energy future. KEY TAKEAWAYS > The Expanding Role of Reservoir Characterization: Learn how techniques traditionally used in oil and gas are now essential for carbon storage, geothermal projects, and hydrogen exploration. > Cutting-Edge Techniques in Action: Discover how advanced methods like full waveform inversion (FWI) and machine learning enhance our ability to map and monitor subsurface formations. > The Importance of Collaboration: Hear why integrating geophysics with geology,

"Seismic attributes are not just colorful pictures; they’re meaningful tools that can guide geoscientists to more accurate interpretations." In this episode, Andrew Geary sits down with Satinder Chopra and Kurt Marfurt, authors of Essentials of Seismic Attributes and Impedance Inversion, to discuss their comprehensive guide to understanding and applying seismic attributes in geophysics. They explore the power of attributes for interpreting seismic data, their practical applications, and common pitfalls to avoid. If you’re ready to deepen your understanding of seismic attributes and their real-world impact, this conversation is packed with expert insights. KEY TAKEAWAYS > The Value of Attributes: Learn how seismic attributes unlock insights into stratigraphy, tectonics, and depositional systems beyond what amplitudes alone can reveal. > Practical Advice for Geoscientists: Discover tips on avoiding common pitfalls, from using preconditioned data to optimizing parameters and algorithms. > Integrated Interpreta

"Physics-based methods honor our understanding of the subsurface, while machine learning fills the gaps - but combining them is key." Andrew Geary chats with Mrinal Sen, a pioneer in seismic data analysis, about his Distinguished Instructor Short Course (DISC) and forthcoming book, Physics and Data Driven Seismic Data Analysis: A Narrative of Two Approaches. Mrinal shares how blending physics-based methods with machine learning unlocks new possibilities in seismic interpretation. Whether you're a student, geophysicist, or industry leader, this discussion is packed with insights into navigating the evolving landscape of seismic analysis. KEY TAKEAWAYS > The Power of Combining Approaches: Learn how integrating physics-driven and data-driven methods enhances seismic problem-solving. > Applications in Seismic Analysis: Discover real-world uses of machine learning, from denoising seismic data to improving full-waveform inversion. > A Practical Guide for Decision-Makers: Gain tools to decide when and how to lever

"Fiber optics can thrive in the harshest environments, proving robust for oil, gas, and carbon capture projects." This episode dives into the cutting-edge world of fiber optics with Joël Le Calvez, guest editor for November 2024's The Leading Edge. Fiber optics, a technology ubiquitous in daily life, is revolutionizing geophysics, offering real-time, cost-effective, and highly precise data collection capabilities. Joël breaks down six groundbreaking papers showcasing how fiber optics transform oil and gas, carbon capture, and even seafloor imaging. KEY TAKEAWAYS > Revolutionary Applications: Fiber optics enables continuous, distributed sensing over large areas, reducing costs and increasing operational efficiency for seismic surveys, leak detection, and more. > Cutting-Edge Innovations: The special section highlights advancements in distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) for seismic profiling, carbon storage monitoring, and real-time event detection. > Bridging Disciplines: Fiber optics has the potential to bre

"Collaboration across disciplines and regions is where significant advancements in geophysics happen. It’s at these intersections that we push boundaries." President John Eastwood shares his inspiring vision for the Society of Exploration Geophysicists in 2025. From advancing the next generation of geophysicists to fostering global collaboration, John outlines his priorities for ensuring the SEG remains a leading force in applied geophysics. Join us for the final episode of 2024 as John discusses the importance of innovation, inclusion, and sustainability in shaping the future of the geophysics community. Key Takeaways =========== * Broadening Geophysics: John highlights the evolution of applied geophysics, emphasizing its growing relevance in renewable energy, CO2 storage, and environmental solutions beyond traditional oil and gas applications. * Empowering the Next Generation: SEG’s future depends on nurturing the next wave of geophysicists through scholarships, leadership programs, and global outreach i

"The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami was a wake-up call. It showed me that even the best science fails without effective communication and proactive strategies to save lives." In this episode, host Andrew Geary talks with Ron Harris, Geological Sciences Professor at Brigham Young University, about his groundbreaking work in disaster preparedness. Ron shares insights from his Global Sustainability lecture (supported by the Baker Hughes Foundation) and the Geoscientists without Borders Java WAVES project, which focuses on how scientific research can save lives in disaster-prone regions. KEY POINTS & TAKEAWAYS > Proactive Disaster Preparedness: Ron champions moving beyond reactive approaches, using community-based education to prepare for potential hazards before they occur. > The "20-20-20" Evacuation Principle: This innovative rule helps communities quickly self-evacuate after earthquakes. By combining scientific data with simple messaging, Ron created a lifesaving tool anyone can understand and implement. > Scien

"The geosciences cover everything from the air we breathe to the ground we walk on, and our job is to make sure policymakers see its critical value. Our reports are about translating complex science into something everyone can understand and use." In this episode, we speak with David Wunsch to explore how geoscience can shape policy decisions that impact everyday lives. David dives into the American Geosciences Institute's (AGI) Critical Needs Document, which outlines essential priorities for geoscience in policy discussions, especially during major political transitions. Learn why concise and accessible communication is vital for bridging the gap between science and policy and how geoscientists can influence real-world change. KEY POINTS & TAKEAWAYS > Bringing Science to Policy: The AGI's Critical Needs Document is crafted every four years to inform policymakers, emphasizing the role of geoscience in economic, environmental, and infrastructure-related decisions. > Effective Communication: With rapid politi

"Geophysics and archaeology are merging in a powerful way, helping us understand ancient communities without damaging their sites. It’s about learning from the past while honoring it." In this episode, we look at how geophysics transforms archaeology by enabling researchers to uncover hidden historical sites without digging. Guests Michael Wilt and Richard Krahenbuhl discuss incredible advances in non-invasive tools like ground-penetrating radar and drones, which help archaeologists map ancient structures, even in challenging urban environments. From Egypt’s pyramids to hidden city sites, learn how geophysical tools give us new ways to explore history and preserve it for future generations. KEY POINTS & TAKEAWAYS > How Geophysics is Shaping Archaeology: Discover how methods like radar, magnetics, and resistivity are helping archaeologists "see" beneath the surface without disturbing sensitive sites, preserving cultural heritage along the way. > Challenges of Urban Archaeology: Hear about the unique struggle

“Geoethics encourages us to think beyond just technical solutions and consider the long-term social and environmental impacts. It’s about embracing humility and seeing problems through multiple lenses to find sustainable solutions.” In this episode, Andrew Geary interviews Giuseppe Di Capua, a founding member and former president of the International Association for Promoting Geoethics (IAPG). They discuss the connection between ethics and geoscience, highlighting the importance of ethical awareness for responsible scientific practices. Giuseppe shares insights on how geoethics can guide geoscientists to balance technical work with social and environmental responsibilities, aiming to foster sustainable interactions with our planet. Listen for a thought-provoking conversation on why geoethics is vital to responsible geoscience and how it can guide our efforts toward a more sustainable world. KEY POINTS & TAKEAWAYS > The Role of Geoethics: Geoethics combines scientific knowledge with ethical responsibility,

"Accessibility of subsurface data is key, especially as companies move along their digital maturity journey. A lot of valuable data is still locked up in boxes, not adding value." In this episode, Patrick Meroney urges geophysicists to align technology with business goals, advocate for innovation within their organizations, and pursue change strategically to drive long-term success. Patrick Meroney, Vice President of North American Operations at Katalyst Data Management, discusses the critical role of subsurface data management in geophysics and how aligning technology with business processes can drive success. Patrick highlights the challenges of digital transformation, the risks of overlooking business goals, and the importance of workflow integration in subsurface operations. Patrick also offers actionable advice for geophysicists on optimizing technology investments and balancing innovation with cost efficiency. KEY POINTS AND TAKEAWAYS > Align technology with business strategy: Many companies fail to

"The MTArray is changing how we explore for minerals and critical resources, and it’s paving the way for sustainable energy development." In this episode of Seismic Soundoff, host Andrew Geary speaks with Adam Schultz about completing the U.S. Magnetotelluric (MT) Array after 18 years. This groundbreaking project has mapped the electrical properties of the Earth’s crust across the contiguous United States. Adam explains how this geophysical method has evolved from pure science into a critical tool for protecting national infrastructure and identifying valuable resources. He shares insights into the unexpected challenges and major discoveries made while offering a bold call to action for the geophysics community to think bigger and push the boundaries of exploration. Listen to learn how the MTArray is shaping the future of geophysics and infrastructure resilience. KEY POINTS AND TAKEAWAYS > The USMTArray's Evolution: Originally part of the EarthScope program, the MTArray project became crucial for understa

"Sustainability isn't just about the environment; it's about the economics and profitability of companies, too. We need the expertise, we need the technology - if you like solving challenges, this is the place to be." In this episode of Seismic Soundoff, host Andrew Geary sits down with Sandy Spørck to discuss the challenges and opportunities in creating a sustainable future within the oil and gas industry. Sandy shares her journey from an engineering mindset to embracing a broader, more scientific view of sustainability and TGS's steps to reach net-zero emissions. They explore the complexities of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), the role of education, and the importance of collaboration in navigating the energy transition. KEY POINTS > Sustainability and ESG: Sandy explains the difference between sustainability (as defined by the UN) and ESG, highlighting how both frameworks guide corporate transparency and environmental responsibility in the oil and gas industry. > TGS's Net-Zero Goals: TGS ha

"The Zohr discovery is an interesting one because all of a sudden it makes everybody sort of scratch their head and go like, 'So what have we missed elsewhere?'" Dr. Walter Rietveld discusses September's The Leading Edge, which focuses on the Eastern Mediterranean. In this episode: > Discover the challenges and opportunities in the Eastern Mediterranean's oil and gas exploration, a region attracting significant industry interest due to recent discoveries and proximity to major markets. > Explore the complexities of the Messenian interval, a geographically variable layer that creates significant hurdles for seismic imaging. > Learn how innovative technologies like multi-azimuth seismic and ocean bottom node (OBN) acquisition and advanced processing techniques like full waveform inversion (FWI) are being used to overcome these imaging challenges. > Examine the success story of the Atoll field, where OBN acquisition and advanced imaging led to significant improvements in seismic data quality, enabling better

"Geophysics can be used as a science tool to inform and engage the community and to give them the autonomy to make educated decisions." Dr. Julia Correa discusses August's The Leading Edge, which focuses on geophysics and sustainability. In this episode, we talk about: > How applied geophysics and seismic methods are a natural fit for ensuring safe and compliant carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) projects. > The importance of clear and effective science communication between geophysicists and stakeholders, including the public, regarding topics like CCUS. > How innovative technologies, like fiber optics, drones (UAVs), and machine learning, are being integrated into geophysical research and data acquisition to create more robust monitoring solutions for various applications, including sustainable energy. > How geophysics enables a carbon-neutral future, specifically in areas like geothermal energy, hydrogen storage, and lithium extraction. > The need for geophysicists to expand their understan

"We are trying to enable the geoscientists to do their work better and faster." In this episode, we explore the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in seismic interpretation, focusing on the advantages of a data-centric approach over the traditional model-centric method. Morten Ofstad, a computer scientist, emphasizes the limitations of pre-trained "black box" deep learning models and advocates for interactive deep learning to improve interpretation accuracy. The discussion highlights VDS, a data format designed for random access and compression, and emphasizes the importance of empowering geoscientists to interact directly with AI-driven interpretation processes. In this episode, we talk about: > The differences between model-centric and data-centric approaches to AI in seismic interpretation. > The limitations of "black box" deep learning models in seismic interpretation and how an interactive approach can improve accuracy and insights. > The importance of high-quality data and accurate labels in training

"The critical zone are the things that impact humans and animals on the earth, more so than a lot of other parts that geophysicists might study." Kamini Singha explores the fascinating world of the Earth's critical zone. This episode uncovers the significance of this thin skin of the Earth and its profound impact on human and ecological systems. In this episode, we talk about: > The definition and importance of the Earth's critical zone > Challenges in studying the critical zone and the need for cross-disciplinary collaboration > The role of geophysics as a "macroscope" to study large-scale subsurface processes > Specific examples of geophysical methods used to study critical zone processes > Insights from Kamini's research on solute transport and groundwater remediation > Emerging trends in hydrogeophysics and critical zone science > The importance of understanding geophysical measurements in complex Earth systems Listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of the critical zone's role in addressi

"How could you apply your own personal knowledge of geoscience, whatever specialty it is, to help solve humanitarian problems, no matter what the scale is?" Join host Andrew Geary as he speaks with Beth Burton to explore the newly formed Geoscientists without Borders (GWB) Technical Review Subcommittee (TRSC). This episode delves into the TRSC's history, purpose, and operations, offering insights into its significant role in advancing humanitarian projects through geoscience. In this episode, we talk about: > The formation and mission of the TRSC > Key principles and guidelines that shape the committee's operations > Criteria for evaluating and selecting projects for funding > The significance of the first mainland USA project in Houston > Upcoming GWB events at IMAGE, including a technical session and field trip > The evolving role of the committee and lessons learned > Opportunities for geoscientists to apply their knowledge to humanitarian efforts Listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of th

Get ready to immerse yourself in cutting-edge geoscience technologies and connect with industry experts. In this episode, Wenyi Hu and Ken Tubman join host Andrew Geary to discuss the upcoming IMAGE '24 conference, which promises the largest technical program to date with over 1,200 presentations. In this episode, we talk about: > The expansion and evolution of poster presentations to enhance networking and discussion > The introduction of a geographic focus in the technical program, covering six regions > The benefits of integrating geophysical and geological technologies > The diverse range of exhibitors > Numerous networking opportunities, from informal interactions on the exhibition floor to special events like Geoscientists without Borders > The value of short courses for both early career and seasoned professionals Listeners will gain a comprehensive overview of what to expect at IMAGE '24, from the technical sessions and poster presentations to the exhibition hall and networking events. This episode

"Sven showed us that the goal of a presentation is to transfer knowledge and insight, not to show people how smart you are." In this heartfelt episode, we honor the legacy of Sven Treitel, a beloved figure in geophysics and at SEG. Kurt Marfurt and Sam Gray join host Andrew Geary to reflect on Sven's profound impact on their work and the field. In this episode, we talk about: > How a 25 cents coffee subsidy proved an invaluable investment for Amoco > The power and usefulness of the "chicken test" > How the gaming and AI industry of today relates to the oil and gas industry > The groundbreaking contributions of Sven and Enders Robinson, particularly in digital signal processing > Sven's approach to making complex concepts accessible and understandable > Sven's dedication to professional societies and his mentorship beyond Amoco > How Sven's international background shaped his perspectives and interactions > The humor and humility that made Sven a beloved mentor and colleague Listeners will gain a deep appr

"Understanding the problem is sometimes more important than getting to a solution." In this episode, Dr. Eileen Martin, winner of the 2024 J. Clarence Karcher Award, shares actionable advice and resources to help you make a positive impact in your professional environment. In this episode, we talk about: > The definitions of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in the context of geophysics > The mission statement of the JEDI Committee and its guiding principles > The challenges and opportunities of a volunteer-driven organization > The JEDI Ambassadors program and its role in promoting JEDI principles > How to question biases and actively support colleagues from underrepresented backgrounds > Practical ways to foster inclusion and belonging in professional settings > The importance of recognizing and nominating diverse talent for awards In this conversation with host Andrew Geary, Eileen Martin elaborates on the JEDI Committee's initiatives, including the JEDI Ambassadors program, which aims to integ