HARDENED FIBER OPTIC CONNECTOR

A fiber optic connection system for optically connecting a first fiber optic cable to a second fiber optic cable, the fiber optic connection system comprising: a fiber optic adapter, a first fiber optic connector terminating the first fiber optic cable and a second fiber optic connector terminating the second fiber optic cable, the fiber optic adapter including a first port for receiving the first fiber optic connector and a second port for receiving the second fiber optic connector, the first fiber optic cable being optically coupled to the second fiber optic cable when the first and second fiber optic connectors are positioned within their respective first and second ports of the fiber optic adapter; the first fiber optic connector including a connector housing that extends from a distal end to a proximal end, the first fiber optic connector also including a ferrule assembly that mounts adjacent to the distal end of the connector housing and a strain relief boot that mounts adjacent the proximal end of the connector housing, the first fiber optic connector further including a sealing member that mounts around an exterior of the connector housing, the sealing member being adapted for providing a seal between the connector housing and the fiber optic adapter when the first fiber optic connector is plugged into the first port of the fiber optic adapter; and the sealing member of the first fiber optic connector having a diameter less than or equal to 15 millimeters.