British researchers from Cardiff University have analyzed a six-second signal recorded by underwater microphones, bringing new hope to one of the greatest aviation mysteries: the location of the missing Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777. This is reported by the British “Telegraph”. The plane disappeared on March 8, 2014 with 239 people on board and remains untraceable despite intensive international search efforts.
The researchers analyzed data from hydrophones – underwater microphones – that recorded a signal around the time of the suspected crash in the Indian Ocean. To determine whether these sounds could indeed reveal the location of the plane, the scientists suggest further tests. A 200-ton plane crashing at a speed of 200 meters per second releases kinetic energy comparable to a small earthquake – strong enough to be picked up by hydrophones thousands of miles away.
Although a signal was recorded by the station at Cape Leeuwin, Western Australia, it could not be detected by the second station at Diego Garcia, a British territory in the Indian Ocean. Dr. Usama Kadri, an expert in applied mathematics, commented on the results: “This raises questions about its origin.” It is not clear, but according to Kadri, it is “highly unlikely that a large aircraft hitting the ocean surface would not leave a noticeable pressure imprint, especially on nearby hydrophones.”
The researchers draw parallels with the discovery of the Argentine submarine ARA San Juan, which was found on the seabed after signals were recorded by detonating grenades in the sea to simulate an explosion and compared with those recorded during the submarine’s implosion event. Similar methods could now help locate MH370.
Dr. Kadri and his team hope that their research will not only shed light on the fate of MH370, but also demonstrate the potential of hydroacoustic technology to assist search and rescue efforts. No concrete lead has been found so far, but if the authorities follow the recommendations, this could be a crucial breakthrough in helping to clarify the fate of MH370.
