First high-contrast results on THD2 testbed after infrastructure upgrade

We present the first scientific results by the upgraded THD2 high-contrast imaging testbed. First, for the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, we demonstrate how single-actuator probes outperform the baseline sinc probes by reducing non-linearities, supporting higher probe amplitudes, and improving electric-field estimation. These results led to their prioritisation as an enhanced commissioning mode for Roman. Second, within ESA’s SUPPPPRESS project, we test new polarization-independent Vector Vortex Coronagraphs designed to achieve contrasts approaching 1e-10 over >20% bandwidth in simulations. We assess their behavior on the testbed in narrow- and broadband light with active focal-plane wavefront control. Together, these results show how THD2 strengthens Europe’s capability in high-contrast imaging, providing a unique platform reaching contrasts of 1e-8 to 1e-9 for developing next-generation coronagraphic technologies.