Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #30828: Taking Fiber Optic Manufacturing to the Next Level in Space

Building on earlier work, the Fiber Optic Production-2 (FOP-2) experiment continued the quest to perfect optical fiber manufacturing in microgravity. Led by Mercury Systems, Inc., and launched during multiple ISS expeditions, FOP-2 refined techniques for producing ZBLAN glass fiber.

The experiment used a compact, self-contained facility aboard the ISS. ZBLAN’s unique composition allows it to transmit more data over longer distances with less signal degradation. On Earth, imperfections form due to gravity-induced convection and sedimentation. Space removes those challenges.

The FOP-2 team tested different parameters such as temperature gradients, pull rates, and fiber diameters. The goal was to develop a repeatable, scalable process for space manufacturing. Data from returned fiber samples showed consistent improvements in clarity and performance.

This work paves the way for commercial manufacturing in orbit, which could redefine high-speed communication, aerospace tech, and beyond.

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