Robustness of Astrix Fiber Optic Gyros in space radiative environment

When developing the Fiber Optics Gyro Astrix™ family, Airbus and Ixblue faced the problematics of the possible radiation effects on optical and opto-electronics parts. After bibliographic research on the subject, selection of parts was made according to existing knowledge, and batch qualification tests performed to quantify the radiation effects. On-ground test results were introduced in worst case optical budget for the optical loop dimensioning. Several years later, following consequent in-orbit data gathering, we can assess that radiation effect are barely noticeable and that inertial performances remain tremendously stable. The careful design of the Astrix optical loop and the proper selection of opto parts were mastered key factor for such an in-flight success.