We propose a fiber optic temperature probe which would provide data on extremely rapid processes such as combustion and explosion. This probe would be an optical pyrometer, capable of measurement from 400 C or less to at least 2000 C with high accuracy. The system would be based on our commercial fiber optic thermometer, which is capable of temperature readings from 400 to 1900 C, with absolute accuracy of I 'C (NIST traceable) and resolution of 0.01 'C. Since the probe fiber can be made very long, the probe itself would be highly adaptable to different mounting configurations and environments such as watertight windowless containers and military aircraft. The optical nature of the measurement would make it immune to electromagnetic interference, electrical discharges, and water. Using very sensitive, low-noise detectors, the system could obtain thermal data at rates up to 1MHz, sufficient to characterize dynamic processes like explosions. The control chassis itself would support multiple probes, so that three-dimensional data could be obtained by placing several probes at different locations. By providing rapid, accurate, 3-D data, a system such as this could be a key element in any developmental or diagnostic system where fast thermal dynamics are involved
