Analysis of optical fiber connector contact damage caused by fluctuations in ambient temperatures of spacecraft

Abstract

In this study, considering the cyclic changes in the ambient temperature of a spacecraft, the variation in the internal stress on the optical fiber connector contact with temperature was simulated to verify the reliable application of the connector. Thus, the potential damage to the contact caused by the ambient temperature was analyzed and verified. The results show that when the ambient temperature exceeds a certain range, microcracks occur on the contact as the internal stresses increase. It was experimentally verified that the traditional optical fiber contact is safe for use in spacecraft within the temperature range of − 65 to 100 °C. For the extensive application of optical fiber connectors on the spacecraft, the internal structure of the contact must be improved to reduce the maximum stress at extreme temperatures.