Single-fiber simultaneous vibration sensing and impact detection for large space structures

The increasing complexity of large space structures further emphasizes the need for multi-use single-element spacecraft components and sensors. Sensing of the vibrations of components and/or sections of a large space structure is necessary for ultra-high precision pointing and tracking as well as general platform stability. At the same time, the quest for a method of detecting spacecraft impacts with micrometeorites or debris continues. A method for using a single optical fiber for simultaneous impact detection and vibration sensing is described. Laboratory studies of these techniques using composite material panels are presented.