| Document and Entity Information | Nov. 09, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | GEOSPACE TECHNOLOGIES CORP |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001001115 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 9, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | TX |
| Entity File Number | 001-13601 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 76-0447780 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 7007 Pinemont |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Houston |
| Entity Address, State or Province | TX |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 77040 |
| City Area Code | (713) |
| Local Phone Number | 986-4444 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock |
| Trading Symbol | GEOS |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
