Multi-Aperture Imaging of Extrasolar Planetary Systems

In this paper, we review the various ways in which an infrared stellar interferometer can be used to perform direct detection of extrasolar planetary systems. We first review the techniques based on classical stellar interferometry, where (complex) visibilities are measured, and then describe how higher dynamic ranges can be achieved with nulling interferometry. The application of nulling interferometry to the study of exozodiacal discs and extrasolar planets is then discussed and illustrated with a few examples.