Resolving Galaxy Nuclei and Compact Stellar Systems as Engines of Galaxy Evolution

TL;DR

This paper discusses how compact stellar systems like star clusters and ultra-compact dwarfs influence galaxy evolution and black-hole growth, emphasizing the potential of a future large optical/IR interferometer for transformative astronomical science.

Contribution

It highlights the role of compact stellar systems as engines of galaxy evolution and proposes a next-generation interferometer to advance this research.

Findings

Compact stellar systems impact galaxy evolution and black-hole growth.

Next-generation interferometry can enable transformative science in this field.

The proposed instrument reuses existing infrastructure for future astronomical studies.

Abstract

In this white paper we focus on compact stellar systems, star clusters, nuclear star clusters (NSCs), stripped nuclei, and ultra-compact dwarfs (UCDs), as engines of galaxy evolution and black-hole growth. We show how the same capability also enables transformative science in active galactic nucleus (AGN) fuelling, stellar surfaces and interacting binaries, and exoplanet atmospheres. These science drivers are naturally aligned with a next-generation kilometre-scale optical/IR interferometer for the 2040s that reuses existing ESO infrastructure while adding diffraction-limited integral-field spectroscopy (IFS).