Prelude to, and Nature of the Space Photometry Revolution

TL;DR

This paper reviews the transformative impact of space photometry missions like CoRoT and Kepler on asteroseismology and exoplanet research, highlighting major discoveries and the revolution in scientific approaches over the past decade.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of the space photometry revolution, emphasizing the context, key discoveries, and lasting changes in scientific methodology.

Findings

Major discoveries in asteroseismology and exoplanets due to CoRoT and Kepler

Significant advancements in understanding stellar interiors and exoplanet systems

Transformation of scientific approaches in astrophysics

Abstract

It is now less than a decade since CoRoT initiated the space photometry revolution with breakthrough discoveries, and five years since Kepler started a series of similar advances. I'll set the context for this revolution noting the status of asteroseismology and exoplanet discovery as it was 15-25 years ago in order to give perspective on why it is not mere hyperbole to claim CoRoT and Kepler fostered a revolution in our sciences. Primary events setting up the revolution will be recounted. I'll continue with noting the major discoveries in hand, and how asteroseismology and exoplanet studies, and indeed our approach to doing science, have been forever changed thanks to these spectacular missions.