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Title: Localization of seismic waves with submarine fiber optics using polarization-only measurements
Abstract Monitoring seismic activity on the ocean floor is a critical yet challenging task, largely due to the difficulties of physical deployment and maintenance of sensors in these remote areas. Optical fiber sensing techniques are well-suited for this task, given the presence of existing transoceanic telecommunication cables. However, current techniques capable of interrogating the entire length of transoceanic fibers are either incompatible with conventional telecommunication lasers or are limited in their ability to identify the position of the seismic wave. In this work, we propose and demonstrate a method to measure and localize seismic waves in transoceanic cables using only conventional polarization optics, by launching pulses of changing polarization. We demonstrate our technique by measuring and localizing seismic waves from a magnitudeMw6.0 earthquake (Guerrero, Mexico) using a submarine cable connecting Los Angeles, California and Valparaiso, Chile. Our approach introduces a cost-effective and practical solution that can potentially increase the density of geophysical measurements in hard-to-reach regions, improving disaster preparedness and response, with minimal additional demands on existing infrastructure.  more » « less
Award ID(s):
1848166
PAR ID:
10477798
Author(s) / Creator(s):
; ; ; ;
Publisher / Repository:
Nature Publishing Group
Date Published:
Journal Name:
Communications Engineering
Volume:
2
Issue:
1
ISSN:
2731-3395
Format(s):
Medium: X
Sponsoring Org:
National Science Foundation
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