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20 November 2017 Fiber optic cables for transmission of high-power laser pulses in spaceflight applications
W. J. Thomes Jr., M. N. Ott, R. F. Chuska, R. C. Switzer, D. E. Blair
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Proceedings Volume 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010; 105651I (2017) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2309144
Event: International Conference on Space Optics—ICSO 2010, 2010, Rhodes Island, Greece
Abstract
Lasers with high peak power pulses are commonly used in spaceflight missions for a wide range of applications, from LIDAR systems to optical communications. Due to the high optical power needed, the laser has to be located on the exterior of the satellite or coupled through a series of free space optics. This presents challenges for thermal management, radiation resistance, and mechanical design. Future applications will require multiple lasers located close together, which further complicates the design. Coupling the laser energy into a fiber optic cable allows the laser to be relocated to a more favorable position on the spacecraft. Typical fiber optic termination procedures are not sufficient for injection of these high-power laser pulses without catastrophic damage to the fiber endface. In the current study, we will review the causes of fiber damage during high-power injection and discuss our new manufacturing procedures that overcome these issues to permit fiber use with high reliability in these applications. We will also discuss the proper methods for launching the laser pulses into the fiber to avoid damage and how this is being implemented for current spaceflight missions.
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W. J. Thomes Jr., M. N. Ott, R. F. Chuska, R. C. Switzer, and D. E. Blair "Fiber optic cables for transmission of high-power laser pulses in spaceflight applications", Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105651I (20 November 2017); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2309144
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KEYWORDS
Polishing
Fiber lasers
Laser damage threshold
High power lasers
Optical fiber cables
Optics manufacturing
Gas lasers
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