Perspectives for the VLT Interferometer in stellar astrophysics

The high surface brightness of stars historically made them natural targets for large optical arrays, and over the last few decades, the VLT Interferometer has brought major contributions in stellar astrophysics.The extraordinary diversity of the physics governing the structure, evolution and environment of stars offers rich perspectives to improve our understanding of various fundamental physical phenomena. Energy and angular momentum transport, gravitation, matter accretion and mass loss, magnetism, star-planet interactions and habitability, novae and supernovae... are only a few examples of key astrophysical topics where optical interferometry can bring decisive contributions. Ultra-high angular resolution combined with high spectral resolution and polarimetry could offer essential benefits. In this brief and incomplete presentation, I will attempt to provide food for thoughts on potential future contributions of an enhanced VLTI in stellar astrophysics