Fiber optics, specifically distributed acoustic sensing (DAS), is being used by researchers to monitor and study various natural phenomena. This technology allows for the detection of seismic activity, ocean currents, and even animal behaviors in remote and difficult-to-access locations such as volcanoes and the seafloor. DAS works by sending short pulses of light through an optical fiber and analyzing the reflected light to gather information about events along the fiber’s length. This method provides high-resolution data and can turn a long fiber into thousands of sensors. Researchers are also exploring a related method that uses continuous laser light and looped cables to detect seismic events over longer distances. This technology has the potential to revolutionize monitoring and understanding of natural processes that were previously difficult to study.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiber optics used to monitor volcanoes | Monitoring method | Improved monitoring capabilities | Cost-effectiveness and accessibility |
| Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) | Detection technique | Higher resolution and longer distances | Cost-effectiveness and accuracy |
| Optical cable used for seismic sensing | Sensing method | Improved detection of seismic activity | Accessibility and cost-effectiveness |
| Optical cables used to monitor cities | Urban monitoring | Enhanced understanding of city dynamics | Safety and infrastructure planning |
| Optical cables used to eavesdrop on whales | Animal behavior monitoring | Better understanding of cetacean behavior | Environmental conservation |
| New method for monitoring seafloor | Seafloor monitoring | Improved monitoring of oceanic systems | Accessibility and accuracy |
| Optical fibers used to study icequakes | Icequake investigation | Increased understanding of ice sheet dynamics | Climate change research |