Light-weight fiber optic sensors have the potential for noise-free measurement to high temperatures with electromagnetic interference immunity, electrical passivity and thus safety in explosive environments, and remote access. Fiber optic grating sensors are also multiplexable and precise, but standard gratings are subject to high-temperature degradation. Methods to alleviate this problem include annealing, chemical composition grating techniques and electric arc writing. This paper will discuss recent developments in special fiber grating using these techniques to extend the maximum temperature at which accurate strain sensing is achievable to fill needs for users of high-temperature health monitoring for aerospace applications.