Frequency-sparse seismic data acquisition and processing

A system comprising:

• an interface to receive data representing measurements acquired by seismic sensors during a towed seismic survey in response to energy produced at least in part by a seismic source, wherein the energy produced by the seismic source at each shot comprises a plurality of discrete frequencies or discrete frequency bands within a frequency range of interest separated by at least one excluded frequency or frequency band;
• and
• a processor to process the data to determine at least one characteristic of a geologic structure.

An article comprising a non-transitory computer readable storage medium storing instructions that when executed by a computer cause the computer to:

• receive data representing measurements acquired by seismic sensors during a towed seismic survey in response to energy produced at least in part by a seismic source, wherein the energy produced by the seismic source at each shot comprises a plurality of discrete frequencies or discrete frequency bands within a frequency range of interest separated by at least one excluded frequency or frequency band;
• and
• process the data to determine at least one characteristic of a geologic structure.

A method comprising:

• performing a survey of a structure using energy generated at least in part by an energy source;
• and
• using the energy source to generate energy for the survey at a plurality of discrete frequencies or frequency bands within a frequency range of interest separated by at least one excluded frequency or frequency band.