A hybrid fiber-optic/electrical network for launch vehicles

Abstract The proposed use of fiber-optic networks in launch vehicles is examined. A data bus architecture is defined, which would replace the mesh network connecting major second-stage avionic packages, in addition to one replacing the take-off minus zero umbilical link from the vehicle to the launch complex. The analysis for a Delta, including bus traffic, cost, and risk factors, led to the selection of n hybrid fiber/electrical network. Candidate termini were tested.