Significance In the realm of scientific advancement and national development, emerging space-based astronomical detection technologies play a pivotal role. Their high-precision observations afford unique opportunities, deepening our comprehension of the universe and propelling the forefronts of astrophysics and cosmology. These detections not only furnish indispensable data for the validation and development of theoretical models but also instigate the emergence of novel theories in fundamental physics. On the national scale, possessing advanced space-based astronomical detection capabilities not only underscores a nation's prowess in the scientific domain but also provides a crucial platform for nurturing high-caliber research talent. This, in turn, contributes to the nation's competitive edge on the global scientific stage. Therefore, the imperative nature of researching and developing novel space-based astronomical detection technologies is evident.
Progress This article delivers a comprehensive examination across three dimensions: the advancement of ultraviolet polarization space observations, the current global landscape of ultraviolet polarization payloads in both domestic and international contexts, and the pivotal technologies associated with ultraviolet polarization payloads. Addressing the progress in ultraviolet polarization space observations, the study elucidates the significance of ultraviolet polarization within the domains of solar physics, planetary science, and interstellar matter research. Furthermore, the article provides an overview of the prevailing global scientific research developments in this field. Concerning the development status of ultraviolet polarization payloads both at home and abroad, given the absence of relevant payloads in China, the emphasis is placed on introducing typical international space-based astronomical ultraviolet polarization payloads, elucidating their detection targets, and summarizing their prospective development directions. Regarding the key technologies associated with ultraviolet polarization payloads, the article synthesizes the performance indicators of both existing and planned astronomical ultraviolet polarization payloads. It is evident that contemporary ultraviolet polarization detection primarily hinges on the fusion of polarization and spectroscopic detection, and a singular ultraviolet polarization datum falls short of meeting the demands of astronomical observations. With escalating observational requisites, the necessity for heightened precision in spectral resolution and polarization measurement accuracy is underscored, thereby imposing heightened demands on ultraviolet polarization devices. Furthermore, given the concentration of ultraviolet radiation signals in the far-ultraviolet wavelength range in the cosmos, which exhibits weaker intensity compared to the visible and infrared bands, there exists a stringent requirement for high overall transmittance and detection efficiency of the system. Building upon these considerations, the article furnishes a forward-looking and succinct perspective on specific key technologies and future directions across three focal areas of ultraviolet optical coatings, ultraviolet polarization systems, and ultraviolet detectors.
Conclusions and Prospects Following an in-depth analysis and synthesis of advancements in ultraviolet polarization space observations both at home and abroad, this review delineates current challenges in ultraviolet polarization detection. These challenges encompass suboptimal optical detection efficiency, subpar polarization measurement accuracy, and the high complexity and cost associated with device development. In response to these challenges, this study puts forth future development directions for space-based ultraviolet polarization detection technology. These directions encompass the exploration of cutting-edge coating technologies, such as Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD), advancements in the high-reflectance performance of multilayer reflective films, the application of emerging dynamic components like electro-optic modulators in the UV spectrum, the development of on-chip ultraviolet-sensitive polarization detectors, the expansion of ultraviolet solid-state detectors into the EUV wavelength range, enhancements in detector sensitivity, and the exploration of innovative ultraviolet detector technologies. This forward-looking perspective is geared towards not only addressing existing challenges but also propelling significant advancements in space-based ultraviolet polarization detection technology.
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