A lamp mounting system for an illuminator is provided. The lamp mounting system includes a framework assembly having separate, spaced-apart front and rear mounting components. The front and rear mounting components are movable relatively toward and away from each other between open and retracted positions. The lamp mounting system also includes a separate lamp module having opposite ends. The front and rear mounting components, in the retracted position, capture and suspend the lamp module therebetween in a manner ensuring proper alignment between the lamp module and collection optics.