Experts at Google tested the impact of strong solar storms on the performance of internet cables laid under the sea. Details on the subject were shared on the Google Cloud website.According to the researchers, solar storms can cause serious voltage fluctuations across infrastructure. However, experts determined that because the cables have conductive copper elements and optical signal amplifiers are located in different parts, the fiber itself is not affected by voltage fluctuations.
Internet cuts due to solar storms?
Google experts referenced information from the Solar Storm of 1859, also known as the Carrington Event, alongside data from minor solar storms. The Carrington Event, which caused serious damage to the telegraph network of the time, was recorded as the most intense geomagnetic storm in history. In the light of all this information, it was concluded that a strong solar storm will not cause an internet outage.
Researchers say that even a severe solar storm like the one in 1859 would only cause a voltage spike of 800 Volts. People need not have that kind of concern, as submarine cables like Google’s can absorb surges of up to 6,000 Volts. Google has 22 submarine cables that are partially or fully funded around the world.
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