99% Invisible

Transatlantic Fiber-Optic Expialidocious

June 30, 2026·31 min·4-min readnarrativetechnology
Podzilla Summary (4 min)
TLDR
The episode explores the history and legacy of TAT-8, the first transatlantic fiber optic submarine cable, which revolutionized global telecommunications and laid the foundation for today’s internet. Despite its short 14-year lifespan, TAT-8 proved the superiority of fiber over satellites

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Guest

J

Jane Ruffino

narrative on 99% Invisible

Mentions

Books, people, and resources mentioned in this episode.

People

Jane RuffinoRoman MarsChristopher JohnsonIsaac Asimov

Books

Wired Magazine

Companies

AT&TBell Labs

Products & Tools

TAT-8

Topics

Artificial IntelligenceClimate ChangeFuture Of WorkHistory Of ScienceLong Form JournalismTech News

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