Tonga researchers test submarine cables to monitor volcanic activity

Researchers are developing new methods to monitor underwater volcanic activity in Tonga, a geologically active region in the South Pacific. Following the massive eruption of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai volcano in January 2022, which triggered a widespread tsunami and atmospheric pressure waves, there has been an increased focus on improving submarine volcanic surveillance.

A study involving the University of Tokyo, the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology, Tonga Geological Services, and the University of Tasmania explores the use of Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS). This technology utilizes the existing fiber optic cables of telecommunications networks on the ocean floor to detect vibrations and seismic movements, rather than relying solely on the installation of traditional underwater seismographs.