science ⚡ Thunderquakes can X-ray what's under the ground
Scientists found that thunderquakes, seismic waves from lightning strikes, can map underground structures like an X-ray. This research was done by researchers at Penn State using fiber-optic cables as vibration sensors. Over two years, they recorded 458 high-quality thunderquakes at State College, Pennsylvania. This allowed them to see weak zones indicating fractures or voids in the limestone and dolomite rock. This method offers a non-invasive way to monitor hazards across the world.