This isn't hard to believe. From what I understand the transcontinental cables are placed on one cable laying ship in a continuous piece that reaches from one continent to the other. Fiber is spliced together, then made into the cable in lengths as needed. Most aren't aware that the FO cable purchased in any length may have fusion splices that are not detectable, but are there. The distance of 20-30 miles before required regeneration has been out of date for a long time. Distances have increased incredibly using Irbium Doping and laser technology. I'm not sure of the theory behind blowing fiber, whether the venturi Affect, Newton's Laws, or aerodynamic forces, but it basically is that the fiber is being "sucked" to the center of the tube by Low and High pressure effects. As long as you maintain the air flow and pressure throughout the tube, the pressure will allow the objects to continue to flow along the tube. The friction between the flow and the object being blown will provide the pulling force. The object will not come in contact with the walls of the tube until the flowing pressure reduces. Amazing stuff, but the basic principal has been around since the 1800's with the pnuematic tube delivery systems.
This is CABL.com posting #353440. Tiny Link: cabl.co/mbD6O
