Validating SCUBAS Predictions of Geomagnetically Induced Voltage in Submarine Cables Using Legacy Superstorm Observations

Chakraborty, S. and Hartinger, M. D. and Shi, X. and Boteler, D. H. and Lawrence, E. and Boteler, C. and Baker, J. B. H. and Macalester, M. (2026) Validating SCUBAS Predictions of Geomagnetically Induced Voltage in Submarine Cables Using Legacy Superstorm Observations. Space Weather, 24 (6): e2025SW004. ISSN 1542-7390

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Abstract

Plain Language Summary: Submarine internet cables use fiber optics to carry data, but they still rely on long conductive wires to power repeaters on the seafloor. During major space weather events, changes in Earth's magnetic field can induce electrical voltages on these power‐feed conductors. This study uses the Submarine Cable Upset By Auroral Streams model to estimate voltages on two transatlantic cables during historic geomagnetic storms in 1958 and 1989. The model closely matches observed voltages and shows that both seafloor induction and coastal electric fields contribute to cable risk. These results help improve assessments of space‐weather impacts on global communication infrastructure.