Following our previous article about optical fibre connectors for space at the previous ICSO2012 conference, we present here how optical connectors are qualified using the ESCC system and report on the final qualification of the AVIM and Mini-AVIM. After an evaluation destined to find the limits for those connectors, values were set for qualification and a formal qualification performed. During that phase, discussion about the definition of the qualified component was raised and the assembled optical connectors were defined as the scope of this qualification. The lesson learned during this ESA ECI programme-funded project are presented and should help future users using fibre-optic connectors in space applications handle its qualification and procurement.

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