Fiber optic cables can become earthquake sensors

University of Michigan seismologist Zack Spica has developed technology that transforms fiber optic internet cables into earthquake detection systems using distributed acoustic sensing and AI. Through his startup Lumetec, Spica monitors the subsea cables that carry 95% of global internet traffic, detecting earthquakes, tsunamis, and ocean activity by analyzing how light reflects through fibers as they deform. This approach could provide crucial extra seconds of earthquake warning time since most large earthquakes occur offshore, and offers telecom companies real-time monitoring to prevent costly cable breaks.