Distributed Fiber-Optic Sensing for Earth System Science

The Stanford Wave Sensing Lab develops advanced geophysical monitoring approaches by leveraging fiber-optic sensing technologies and dense seismic networks. Our research focuses on capturing vibrations generated by human activity and natural phenomena, including ocean waves, earthquakes, and volcanic processes, to better understand the physical mechanisms and subsurface structures that govern these systems. By exploiting the rapid growth of distributed fiber sensing, we design new classes of environmental sensors capable of tracking both short-term dynamics and long-term climate-driven changes. We also deploy specialized sensing systems in challenging environments, such as glaciers and active volcanic regions, to probe complex geophysical processes in situ. In parallel, we build and prototype novel fiber-sensing instruments that expand measurement capabilities. A central objective of the lab is the development of scalable, real-time early warning systems for earthquakes, volcanoes, and tsunamis using telecommunications fiber infrastructure as continuous, large-aperture seismic arrays.