PHILTEC Fiber Optic Sensors in Space
The Global Space Launch market is anticipated to rise at a considerable rate during the forecast period between 2023 and 2031. In 2022, for example, the market grew at a steady pace, with the rising adoption of strategies by key players.
As the space economy expands, satellite constellations are proliferating. To serve an expanding space economy, nearly 7500 active satellites orbit Earth with about 50 taking to the skies every week. Many operate as part of multi-satellite constellations, serving commercial applications, such as remote sensing, communications, and navigation.
The private sector is the fastest-growing segment of this market. Technological advances and declining costs have spurred innovation and commercial activity. Amazingly, the price of heavy launches to Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) has fallen from $65,000 per kilogram to $1,500 per kilogram—more than a 95 percent decrease. In part, due to these efficiencies, companies and governments are putting thousands of new satellites into orbit. Elon Musk’s SpaceX is leading the way with its Starlink program planning to launch as many as 42,000 satellites to provide global broadband and other services.
PHILTEC Fiber Optic Sensor Applications
Rocket Engine Turbopumps
PHILTEC sensors monitor turbopump rotor speed (D Model Sensors) plus radial and axial rotor displacements (RC Models). Key characteristics of these sensors include:
- Custom Probe Casings for exposure to pressurized cryogenic fluids (Machined casings are sometimes provided by the customer. Some customers provide 3D-printed casings. Other times, the customer provides 2D pdf files and stp production files. Monel K500 metal is usually specified when the media is liquid oxygen.)
- 40–60 ft long fiber optic cables keeping electronics away from heat and vibration at the rocket test stand
- Vibration-proof connector hardware
Satellite Propulsion Systems
PHILTEC’s D Model Sensors are used to measure displacements of thruster assemblies. Companies engaged in development of satellite propulsion systems perform these measurements via custom-built thrust stands. Thruster performance is gauged by directly measuring the linear force output. Two major requirements are accuracy and complete resistance to stray electrical noise. By equating the applied thrust with the linear displacement via PHILTEC D models the force output can be measured precisely and noise free.
For more information about these products and companies leading the Global Space Launch market, read Philtec Application Note 81: “Global Space Launch Business”
To request more information or a quotation for Philtec products, contact IL Photonics.