Exploration and qualification of UV optics analysis capabilities

Modern astrophysics relies on UV observations to study the dynamics of interstellar and intergalactic gas, star-forming regions, and distant planetary atmospheres. Because these sources are faint and their spectra are often heavily modified by intervening material, they require highly specialized and carefully calibrated UV optical systems. To support the development of such capabilities, a UV reflection and transmission efficiency instrument was evaluated in detail.

This thesis documents the assessment of the system’s performance and highlights key limitations affecting its use for grating characterization. Work included refinement of optical alignment, mitigation of scattered light, and analysis of measurement uncertainties associated with detector response and system geometry.

These studies provide a framework for understanding current system limitations and inform recommended upgrades to enable reliable UV grating measurements. Improving the performance and reliability of ground-based UV optical testing directly supports the development of future space-based telescopes and instruments, enabling more precise observations of the physical processes that shape the universe.