A recent history of science cases for interferometry

TL;DR

This paper reviews the evolution and scientific applications of optical long-baseline interferometry since 2004, emphasizing its ongoing importance and future potential in astrophysics research.

Contribution

It summarizes key scientific cases, technological developments, and recommendations from major meetings, highlighting the role of interferometry in the era of large telescopes.

Findings

Interferometry has produced increasing scientific publications since 2004.

Key technological advancements are necessary for future breakthroughs.

Interferometry remains crucial for probing small spatial scales in astronomy.

Abstract

Optical long-baseline interferometry is a unique and powerful technique for astronomical research. Since 2004, optical interferometers have produced an increasing number of scientific papers covering various fields of astrophysics. As current interferometric facilities are reaching their maturity, we take the opportunity in this paper to summarize the conclusions of a few key meetings, workshops, and conferences dedicated to interferometry. We present the most persistent recommendations related to science cases and discuss some key technological developments required to address them. In the era of extremely large telescopes, optical long-baseline interferometers will remain crucial to probe the smallest spatial scales and make breakthrough discoveries.