Adelaide University to Test Next-Gen Space Fibres Produced in Microgravity
- Erin Lear Loughan
- Mar 31
- 1 min read
Updated: Apr 1
The University of Adelaide has acquired five spools of ZBLAN optical fibres from its industry partner, Flawless Photonics. These next-generation space fibres were manufactured in microgravity aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
The internet's backbone is anticipated to remain cable-based, with ZBLAN fibre emerging as a promising option to address the growing global demand for data. ZBLAN glass is being investigated as a viable alternative to current silica-based telecommunication cables, offering potential for faster data transfer and higher-capacity internet connections. Known for its ultra-low loss properties, this glass is ideal for high-bandwidth, long-distance telecommunication applications.
The analysis results will be vital for enhancing the space-based manufacturing process, as the University and Flawless Photonics strive to fully realize the potential of ZBLAN fibres. Ebendorff-Heidepriem will present the analysis results at The Australian and New Zealand Conference on Optics and Photonics in Melbourne in December.
