Local Universe Science with the E-ELT

TL;DR

This paper reviews the potential scientific studies of the local Universe enabled by the European Extremely Large Telescope (E-ELT), highlighting key research areas and emphasizing the need for innovation to justify its cost.

Contribution

It provides an overview of scientific goals for the E-ELT related to local Universe studies, illustrating its capabilities across various astrophysical topics.

Findings

Potential to study young starburst clusters and evolved stars

Insights into Galactic centre and structure

Enhanced understanding of stellar populations in external galaxies

Abstract

This paper briefly reviews some of the exciting studies of the local Universe that will be enabled with the European Extremely Large Telescope (E-ELT). As illustrative examples, it summarizes a few of the scientific goals that have been set for this instrument for studies of young starburst clusters, evolved stars, the Galactic centre, Galactic structure, nucleo-chronometry, the interpretation of the "Spite Plateau," and the properties of resolved stellar populations in external galaxies. It finishes on a note of warning that we really need to be even more innovative and adventurous if we are to justify the cost of the E-ELT.