Can SDM Survive the Hollow Core Challenge?

Summary form only given. This workshop will explore the evolving landscape of high-capacity optical communications, focusing on the impact of hollow core fibers (HCF) on the future viability of Spatial Division Multiplexing (SDM). As SDM emerges as a leading strategy for increasing transmission capacity by utilizing multiple spatial channels within a single fiber, the rapid advancements in HCF technology present both opportunities and challenges. HCFs, with their ability to reduce latency, minimize non-linearities, and enable higher data transmission over long distances, may disrupt current SDM developments, calling into question the scalability and relevance of SDM in future commercial deployments.