Anisotropic Joint Migration Inversion: Automatic estimation of reflectivities and anisotropic velocities

One of the most crucial estimates obtained from reflection seismology is the seismic image. It provides a map of the subsurface reflectivities. However, in order to construct an accurate map an accurate propagation velocity model is needed. For simple geologic environments an isotropic velocity model is sufficient, however, for complex geologic environments an anisotropic velocity model is more appropriate and more realistic in describing wave propagation. Ignoring the anisotropic kinematics in these geologic environments will most definitely lead to sub-optimal or even poor imaging results, especially with the tendency of today's acquisition geometries that include measurements at large source-receiver offsets...