Scientists map the changing sounds of the Arctic to strengthen global monitoring

As Arctic sea ice retreats, the region is undergoing transformation due to new shipping routes, expanding resource development, and growing geopolitical competition. In response to these changes in one of the world's least-monitored areas, scientists at Los Alamos National Laboratory have established one of the first long-term acoustic baselines for the Arctic's underwater soundscape.

This scientific effort is designed to strengthen the detection and interpretation of various events, including earthquakes, underwater and nearshore detonations, and ship traffic. By mapping these changing sounds, the initiative supports the monitoring of activities of national security interest.