In the coming years, HWO (Habitable World Observatory) will examine at least 25 potentially habitable worlds to analyze their atmospheres for biosignatures that indicate the presence of life. To avoid misinterpretation by non-life processes, it is crucial to put these results into context. Some of the key biosignatures sought during this examination will include oxygen, ozone, and methane, among others. Scientists will draw upon their knowledge of planets and moons within our own Solar System to better understand the conditions on the exoplanets observed by HWO.
As NASA continues to develop the necessary technologies for constructing and launching HWO, a project office at NASA Headquarters will be set up later this year to transition the project from its pre-formulation phase to “pre-phase A” status. The observatory’s conceptual work is currently being advanced with the collaboration of two teams: START (Science, Technology, Architecture Review Team) focusing on the telescope’s scientific objectives and TAG (Technical Assessment Group) concentrating on technical requirements.
It is important to have a solid foundation of knowledge when searching for life. According to Quick, understanding how geological processes on Earth-like exoplanets can influence the possibility of life requires an understanding of how geological activities on Earth and other potentially habitable bodies in our Solar System have impacted their ability to support life over time. In the foreseeable future, HWO could focus its attention on a star system similar to our Solar System and potentially uncover the initial signs of life on another planet.
