Optical Feedthroughs
Fiber Optic and Window Penetrations
Optical feedthroughs are hermetically sealed fiber optic penetrations and transparent sapphire or fused silica windows that route data signals and allow visual inspection across pressure walls. Operating against the external vacuum, these penetrations must pass optical signals without pressure leaks while exposed window surfaces require protection against dust contamination. Optical fiber links provide data transmission immune to radiation-induced electromagnetic interference, simultaneously eliminating electromagnetic coupling between compartments. Anti-reflective coatings minimize light loss for inspection cameras, and connectors at the penetration enable in-situ fiber replacement.
Optical fiber and window penetrations for data communication and visual inspection
Purpose
Optical fiber and window penetrations for data communication and visual inspection
Context
Child of L2-STR-PEN
Principles
- ▸Hermetic fiber optic feedthroughs pass light signals without pressure leak
- ▸Sapphire or fused silica windows provide visual/camera access through pressure walls
- ▸Anti-reflective coatings on windows minimize light loss for inspection cameras
- ▸Fiber connectors at penetration enable in-situ fiber replacement
Typical implementations
- ▸Diamond SA hermetic fiber optic feedthroughs
- ▸MPF Products vacuum-rated optical feedthroughs
- ▸Sapphire viewport designs for vacuum systems
Lunar considerations
- ▸Fiber optic data links immune to radiation-induced EMI
- ▸Window surfaces must be protected from dust contamination
- ▸Optical feedthroughs eliminate electromagnetic coupling between compartments
Specifications
Functional
| primary function | Optical fiber and window penetrations for data communication and visual inspection |
Physical
| materials | Sapphire windows, Hermetic fiber connectors, Anti-reflective MgF2 coating |
Interfaces
Provides
- Optical communication through pressure walls
Requires
- Fiber optic data links crossing pressure boundaries
Cite this entry
Lunar Ark Codex. "Optical Feedthroughs" (L3-STR-PEN-OPT). Retrieved 10 September 2026, from https://lunarark.com/entry/L3-STR-PEN-OPT
Licensed CC-BY-SA 4.0. You may reuse and adapt this entry with attribution, under the same licence.