Precise sensing utilizing optical fiber for space craft

The ultimate performance of the spacecraft is based on the precise design which is usually verified with the tests on the ground. Thus the precise sensing technology is necessary to the development of the spacecraft. In the case of the observation satellites, it is important for the test verification to measure the accurate value of the thermal strain and the micro-vibration which affect the structural stability in space and then decrease the pointing stability. Fiber optic sensors are one of the promising sensors for the precise structural measurement and currently utilizing for RandD activities in Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency.