Imaging with τ = 0 versus t = 0: Implications for the inverse scattering internal multiple attenuation algorithm

The inverse scattering subseries for removing free surface and internal multiples provided the first comprehensive theory for removing multiples from an arbitrary heterogeneous earth without any subsurface information whatsoever. Furthermore, taken as a whole, the inverse series provides a fully inclusive theory for processing both primaries and multiples directly in terms of an inadequate velocity model, without updating or in any other way determining the accurate velocity configuration. Hence, the inverse series and, more specifically, its subseries that perform imaging and inversion of primaries, has the potential to allow processing primaries to catch up to processing multiples in concept and effectiveness. As the capability for processing primaries is advancing and the models for testing/evaluation become more complex, our fundamental definition/understanding of what we call primaries and multiples needs to expand to include a wider set of event types as well. Expanding the type of arrivals we consider primaries is important for imaging and inversion and also, as subevents, for internal multiple attenuation algorithms. This research pushes forward the description/processing of headwave arrivals as prime events (primaries) or sub-events of composite events (multiples) and it is part of our effort to accommodate broader data types and events in the recorded data.