Santorini: Scientists Lay Fiber-Optic Cable in Kolumbo Volcano
An international team of researchers has begun laying a fiber-optic cable in the crater of the active underwater Kolumbo volcano near Santorini to track seismic activity and tiny tremors.
- Researchers are laying about 500 meters of fiber-optic cable in the Kolumbo volcano crater near Santorini.
- The setup uses Distributed Acoustic Sensing to track faint vibrations, gas bubbles, and underwater tremors.
- The project aims to improve long-term monitoring of geological hazards in the Aegean Sea.
If you are planning a trip to Santorini or the Aegean islands, this is strictly a scientific research project designed to enhance safety and monitoring. There is no impact on flights, ferries, or tourist routines, and no special instructions for travelers.
Monitoring the Kolumbo Volcano
A team of researchers from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), alongside colleagues from the United States and Italy, has started laying a fiber-optic cable in the crater of the Kolumbo underwater volcano. Located northeast of Santorini, the volcano is a key site for monitoring geological hazards in the Aegean Sea.
The operations are conducted from the research vessel Gaia Blu. The main goal is to capture faint vibrations and sounds from hidden seabed processes that land-based seismic networks often struggle to detect.
New Technology for Tracking Tremors
Part of the HYDROSENSE mission, the project uses Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS). This technology turns a single fiber into a long chain of sensors using laser pulses, detecting tiny changes in light reflection to record vibrations and sounds at hundreds of points along the cable at depths of nearly 500 meters.
Researchers want to analyze the sound of escaping gas bubbles to measure gas releases and track how emissions change over time. The team previously tested the method on Milos, which features large shallow underwater geothermal systems.
Building on Past Seismic Crises
The push for better monitoring follows a seismic and volcanic crisis in early 2025 that lasted about a month, producing more than 30,000 earthquakes as activity shifted toward the islet of Anydros. Experts note that permanent monitoring cannot rely solely on periodic research projects and require ongoing support.
FAQ
Is the Kolumbo volcano near Santorini erupting? No. The activity at the site is purely scientific, involving researchers installing monitoring equipment.
Does this affect tourists visiting Santorini? No. Operations are conducted from a research ship at sea, with no impact on tourism, flights, or ferries.
Is there any travel warning for Israel travelers? No. This is an international scientific research initiative with no related travel restrictions or safety warnings.
