Optical fiber devices in space environmental conditions

The performance of various optical fiber devices, such as optical fiber cords and light emitting diode (LED) receptacles, is presented in terms of mechanical, thermal, out-gassing, and irradiation characteristics. First, the optical fiber cord strength proved sufficient, and out-gassing and thermal (-55 C to 150 C) characteristics were improved in trial manufacturing. Second, tests show an output variation for LED receptacles of less than 0.06 dB at 0.87 x 10 to the 6th rad (Si) of gamma radiation, and + or - 0.5 dB for -55 C to 150 C when temperature variation is considered. A future spaceborne fiber optic data system offers a 56% weight reduction, and tests show the good potential of such a system.