Space processing of crystals for opto-electronic devices: The case for solution growth

The results obtained during a six month program aimed at determining the viability of space processing in the 1980's of dielectric-elastic-magnetic single crystals were described. The results of this program included: identification of some important emerging technologies dependent on dielectric-elastic-magnetic crystals, identification of the impact of intrinsic properties and defects in the single crystals on system performance, determination of a sensible common basis for the many crystals of this class, and identification of the benefits of micro-gravity and some initial experimental evidence that these benefits can be realized in space. It is concluded that advanced computers and optical communications are at a development stage for high demand of dielectric-elastic-magnetic single crystals in the mid-1980's. Their high unit cost and promise for significantly increased perfection by growth in space justified pursuit of space processing.