ORCID

0009-0003-8499-6246

Keywords

PolyOculus, Astrophotonics, T CrB, recurrent novae, stellar astrophysics, spectroscopy

Abstract

This dissertation presents advancements in Astrophotonics with a focus on PolyOculus technology - a novel, scalable approach to astronomical instrumentation designed to enhance observational capabilities in a cost-effective manner. It details the development of the Original PolyOculus Array (OPA), its integrated light-combining device (the photonic lantern), and its dedicated spectrograph, OPASpec. In parallel, the final commissioning of the MIRADAS Near-Infrared spectrograph is described. These instrumental innovations are applied to key astrophysical investigations, including the search for coronal mass ejections on M-dwarfs and time-resolved spectroscopic monitoring of T Coronae Borealis during its pre-eruption phase. By combining cutting-edge instrument design with cross-institutional collaboration, this work contributes to the evolving landscape of ground-based Astrophotonics in support of stellar astrophysics.

Completion Date

2025

Semester

Summer

Committee Chair

Eikenberry, Stephen

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

College

College of Sciences

Department

Physics

Format

PDF

Identifier

DP0029594

Language

English

Document Type

Thesis

Campus Location

Orlando (Main) Campus

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