Scientists from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology have developed a groundbreaking method using seabed fiber-optic cables to track silent underwater objects, including whales and ships.

This technique, called distributed acoustic sensing (DAS), measures water displacement caused by hydrodynamic pressure fields generated by moving objects.The study demonstrates that even without vocalizations, whales can be detected through the strain patterns in sediments beneath fiber-optic cables.

Researchers tested the method with surface ships of varying sizes, finding that signal strength correlates with vessel size and proximity to the cable.While effective for tracking submarines and large whales at close range, the system has limitations for distant detection.

The innovation could revolutionize marine biology research by enabling continuous monitoring of silent marine life, offering new insights into endangered species behavior without relying on acoustic signals.However, challenges remain in interpreting complex data patterns and improving model accuracy for precise results.