We demonstrate the eclipsing binary detection performance of the Gaia variability analysis and processing pipeline using Hipparcos data. The automated pipeline classifies 1 067 (0.9%) of the 118 204 Hipparcos sources as eclipsing binary candidates. The detection rate amounts to 89% (732 sources) in a subset of 819 visually confirmed eclipsing binaries, with the period correctly identified for 80% of them, and double or half periods obtained in 6% of the cases.

The ESA space mission Gaia, planned to be launched at the end of 2013, will make astrometric, photometric and spectroscopic measurements of about 1 billion sources in our Galaxy. Amongst these sources will be numerous multiple systems. In the processing chain eclipsing binaries (EBs) will be detected and, if possible, their period and characteristics determined. Here we summarize the various steps that are foreseen to automatically classify and characterise these EBs.

Two upcoming large scale surveys, the ESA Gaia and LSST projects, will bring a new era in astronomy. The number of binary systems that will be observed and detected by these projects is enormous, estimations range from millions for Gaia to several tens of millions for LSST. We review some tools that should be developed and also what can be gained from these missions on the subject of binaries and exoplanets from the astrometry, photometry, radial velocity and their alert systems.