Nigel Anstey - Major Contributions (selected)

Major Contributions (selected)

In the 1950s, he began making major contributions to the seismic exploration, which are foundations for the standard techniques used today. He and his colleagues at SSL pioneered the used of cross-correlated seismic sections. His 1957 paper, ‘’Why all this interest in the shape of the pulse?” sparked research on the seismic wavelet (still an active area of research). In 1959, he published the first paper on the earth’s effect on the seismic waveform and its relationship to peg-leg multiples.

In 1961, he co-invented (with W. E. Lerwill) the magnetic correlator, which made practical the Vibroseis method, which today is a standard seismic source for land acquisition.

In 1971, he introduced the use of color overlays of seismic velocity on the seismic section for distinguishing lithologic differences. The use of attribute overlays is standard practice today. In 1975, he was awarded a patent for the basic VSP (vertical seismic profile).

Since 1975, when Anstey left Seiscom Delta to concentrate on teaching and consulting, he has written a number of books, monographs and papers. Many geophysicists have been introduced to the seismic method and Anstey through his series of educational videos. His contributions have been recognized with many honors.