Characterization of a space orbited incoherent fiber optic bundle

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to report the results of a study performed to determine the effects of adverse space environments on a bundle of 1800+ optical fibers space orbited for 69 months. Experimental results are presented on an incoherent fiber optic bundle oriented in low earth orbit aboard the Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF) satellite as part of the Space Environment Effects Experiments (M0006). Measurements were performed to determine if space induced radiation effects changed the bundle characteristics. Data demonstrating the success of this light transmitting fiber optical bundle to withstand the adverse space environment are presented.