Under the waters of the Aegean, fiber optic technology is being transformed into an “instrument” for monitoring the seismic vibrations of the seabed. In Santorini, Vodafone Greece and the National Observatory of Athens are collaborating to create an underwater virtual network of seismographs, an innovative “tool” that will monitor seismic activity around the island in real time.
It is an innovative initiative, where telecommunications technology is directly linked to science and civil protection. The idea started out of the need to monitor, more precisely, the seismic activity recorded around Santorini, especially after the wave of intense seismic activity that began to be felt from the beginning of 2025.
Vodafone proceeded to grant a pair of optical fibers from its extensive submarine cable, which connects Attica with the islands of the Cyclades, the Dodecanese and Crete. An infrastructure project which now acquires a second, scientific, but also social role. Vodafone and the National Observatory of Athens are leveraging the undersea infrastructure to enhance seismological monitoring of the region, offering valuable data that cannot be collected by terrestrial networks.
From technology to knowledge
The technology used, known as Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS), turns optical fiber into continuous seismic sensors. Through pulses of light traveling through the cable, every tiny bend or vibration is precisely recorded, creating a “virtual” network of seismographs that stretches under the sea.
In this way, the cable is no longer just a means of communication, but is evolving into a long-range scientific tool, capable of detecting small earthquakes and movements of magmatic fluids that could go unnoticed.
Technology for science and society
Santorini is one of the most iconic tourist destinations worldwide. Every technological initiative that enhances the resilience and safety of the local community has a wider social and economic footprint.
Through this partnership, Vodafone Greece confirms its commitment to use its technology for the benefit of society, investing not only in digital connectivity, but also in knowledge, innovation and security.
The underwater virtual seismograph network is another step in this direction: a practical proof that technology can serve the knowledge, prevention and ultimately the resilience of societies and people in the face of natural challenges.