The VLTI and Its Instrumentation

Abstract

High angular resolution is one of the key factors needed to detect and investigate young stars, their circumstellar environment and the possible presence of exoplanets. In this respect, the VLTI represents one of the most powerful tools available in the short term. We describe the phased implementation of the VLTI, from the basic configuration which has recently achieved first fringes, to the full array with all subsystems and complete instrumentation that will be operational in the next years. We provide examples of techniques for the study of young stars and exoplanets.