The path to far-IR interferometry in space: recent developments, plans, and prospects

The far-IR astrophysics community is eager to follow up Spitzer and Herschel observations with sensitive, high-resolution imaging and spectroscopy, for such measurements are needed to understand merger-driven star formation and chemical enrichment in galaxies, star and planetary system formation, and the development and prevalence of water-bearing planets. The community is united in its support for a space-based interferometry mission. Through concerted efforts worldwide, the key enabling technologies are maturing. Two balloon-borne far-IR interferometers are presently under development. This paper reviews recent technological and programmatic developments, summarizes plans, and offers a vision for space-based far-IR interferometry involving international collaboration.

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