Performance, results, and prospects of the visible spectrograph VEGA on CHARA

Abstract

In this paper, we review the current performance of the VEGA/CHARA visible spectrograph and make a review of the most recent astrophysical results. The science programs take benefit of the exceptional angular resolution, the unique spectral resolution and one of the main features of CHARA: Infrared and Visible parallel operation. We also discuss recent developments concerning the tools for the preparation of observations and important features of the data reduction software. A short discussion of the future developments will complete the presentation, directed towards new detectors and possible new beam combination scheme for improved sensitivity and imaging capabilities.