Time-domain studies of M31

Abstract

M31, our closest neighboring galaxy, is a stepping stone to studies of stellar evolution, star formation, galaxy evolution, and cosmology. However, due to the difficulties of performing photometry in such crowded fields and the lack of wide cameras to encompass the entire galaxy, there has not been a complete census of the stellar contents of M31. The advent of wide-field camera provides us a unique opportunity to have a complete view of our neighboring galaxy, enabling an inventory of its variable content. We present a review of recent progresses of wide-field, high cadence surveys of M31, covering different population of variables and transients. We also outline future studies enabled by on-going and up-coming facilities.