The way forward

TL;DR

This paper reviews the advancements in astronomical instrumentation for studying star disks and exoplanets, highlighting current technologies and future instrument requirements to propel the field forward.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of existing and developing instruments for star and exoplanet research, outlining future needs and directions.

Findings

Current instruments have significantly advanced the study of star disks and exoplanets.

Emerging technologies are poised to further enhance observational capabilities.

Future instrument development is crucial for progress in understanding planetary systems.

Abstract

For the last few decades the study of disks around stars young and old and of different types have progressed significantly. During the same time a completely new discipline, the study of exoplanets, planets orbiting stars other than our Sun, have emerged. Both these fields, which are interconnected, have benefited from the development of new instrumentation, and especially by telescopes and detectors deployed in space. In this chapter we are describing the state of the art of such instruments and make an inventory of what is being currently developed. We also state some of the requirements of the next steps and what type of instruments will lead the way forward.