The last third of the 20th century was marked by the rapid development of X-ray and vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) spectroscopy of multiply charged ions. This research commenced as studies of X-ray solar radiation and radiation of multiply charged ions in laser-produced plasma. Subsequently, they were supplemented by the study of fast electric discharges and work on X- ray/VUV optics. The formulation of many works was also motivated by the need for spectroscopic diagnostics of high-temperature plasma and the possibility of developing lasers in the soft X-ray (SXR) range based on the transitions of multiply charged ions. The methods of SXR/VUV spectroscopy have found application in the development of new X-ray optical elements and schemes of diffraction spectrometers. The review reminisces the main participants in these studies and the main milestones in the development of spectroscopic research at the LPI in the vacuum region of the spectrum, starting from the mid-1960s, and briefly reflects the development of the experimental technique used. The review does not claim to be complete, and the selection of cited materials reflects the scientific interests of the author.