Assessment of the Significance of FBG Sensors for Space Environments

Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive assessment of the application of Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensors under harsh conditions characteristic of space environments. The operational performance of the sensors is analyzed under vacuum, thermal cycling, mechanical loads, and extreme temperatures of 800–1000 °C. The spectral drift stability of Regenerated FBG technology is demonstrated. The linear sensitivity of the Bragg wavelength to strain provides a basis for high measurement accuracy. The capabilities of embedded FBG networks for multiparameter monitoring are confirmed.

A review of the literature reveals the lack of comprehensive evaluation of FBG sensors in space environments, as well as the absence of a system-level assessment of the “sensor–structure–measurement system” chain. To address this gap, a comprehensive experimental methodology is proposed. Simulation of LEO conditions and long-term stability analysis are performed. The results substantiate the use of FBG sensors as a reliable measurement platform for structural health monitoring (SHM) systems of spacecraft.