Atlantic Tracking with Lightwave Acoustic Sensing

ATLAS uses existing undersea telecommunications cables in an innovative way, transforming them into large-scale listening systems to better understand what is happening in the ocean. By combining Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) with robotic systems for cable mapping, inspection, and complementary acoustic observations, the project aims to detect earthquakes and other geohazards, monitor underwater noise, and help protect marine life such as whales, while also improving maritime safety. In simple terms, ATLAS seeks to make ocean monitoring more affordable, continuous, and useful for public authorities, researchers, and maritime operators across the Atlantic.