In the early hours of January 23, Storm Ingrid struck A Coruña with significant intensity, generating intense electrical activity along the Galician coast. A lightning strike on the Tower of Hercules caused a power surge that affected the lighthouse’s electrical system and led to an incident in its light signal.
Following a rapid response to ensure the continued operation of the lighthouse, the Port Authority of A Coruña initiated the necessary actions to carry out repairs to various electrical and control system components affected by the lightning strike.
A historic symbol of maritime navigation
The Tower of Hercules is one of the most iconic lighthouses in the world and an inseparable symbol of the city of A Coruña. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic Roman lighthouse has guided mariners along the Atlantic coast of Galicia for centuries, maintaining its original function as an aid to navigation to this day.
Beyond its historical and heritage value, the Tower of Hercules continues to play an essential role in maritime safety, combining tradition and engineering through a classic optical system based on Fresnel lenses, rotation motors and an automatic lamp changer.
MSM’s intervention
As part of this project, Mediterráneo Señales Marítimas (MSM) designed, manufactured and installed the equipment required to renew the lighthouse’s electrical and remote monitoring systems, contributing to the restoration of its operational capabilities.
The work was carried out in coordination with the Maritime Signals technical team of the Port Authority of A Coruña, responsible for the technical supervision of the project, validation of the proposed solutions and final verification of the proper operation of the affected systems.
Among the upgraded equipment, the new MTF3000 control cabinet stands out. Designed and manufactured by MSM specifically for this project, the system enables the management and monitoring of both the lighthouse light source and its rotating mechanism. It also incorporates a digital monitoring display that provides real-time information on operational status and system alerts.
In addition, the MMB02 remote monitoring system has been implemented. Developed by MSM, this solution enables remote monitoring and control of the lighthouse through IoT communications, facilitating more efficient supervision of the installation.
The intervention also included the replacement of various electrical and control components associated with lighthouse operation, adapting the system to current operational requirements and enhancing its reliability.
Preservation and reliability in a historic lighthouse
The work carried out has enabled the renewal of several essential systems involved in the operation and monitoring of the Tower of Hercules, ensuring the operational reliability of this emblematic lighthouse.
This project highlights the importance of maintaining and preserving historic maritime signalling infrastructure that, beyond its heritage and symbolic value, continues to fulfil a vital role in navigation safety.
At MSM, we are proud to have contributed to the renewal of the electrical, monitoring and remote-control systems of one of the world’s most iconic lighthouses, supporting the preservation of a maritime heritage site of outstanding universal value.
