  Over the past 4 decades, the exploration of planets beyond our solar system
has yielded the discovery of over 5600 exoplanets orbiting different stars.
Continuous advancements in instrumentation and cutting-edge techniques empower
astronomers to unveil and characterize new exoworlds with increasing frequency.
Notably, direct imaging, also called high-contrast imaging (HCI), stands out as
the only method capable of capturing photons emitted directly from the
planetary bodies. This innovative technique proves particularly advantageous
for scrutinizing nascent planetary systems, where planets shine brilliantly and
emit significant heat during their initial developmental phases. HCI provides
comprehensive visuals of the entire system, encompassing the central star,
potential circumstellar disks, and any additional companions. However, the
complexity of imaging an object 10^6 fainter than its parent star necessitates
state-of-the-art instrumentation. HCI demands cutting-edge tools such as exAO
systems, telescopes exceeding 8 meters in diameter, coronagraphs, and modern
imagers. The pivotal role of post-processing cannot be overstated in the quest
for detecting and characterizing planets through HCI. This method has not only
facilitated the discovery of numerous planets but has also presented invaluable
opportunities to explore the properties of young substellar companions, both
planets and brown dwarfs. Insights into their interactions with parent disks or
other companions within the system, the composition of their atmospheres, and
the identification of still accreting planets, also known as "protoplanets,"
contribute significantly to our understanding of planet formation scenarios.
The continued refinement of HCI promises to unveil further revelations in the
captivating field of exoplanetary exploration.
