NASA Prepares for Launch of Next Generation Flagship Space Telescope

NASA is already planning for its next flagship space telescope, the Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO), which could serve as the successor to the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). The HWO aims to study exoplanets, stars, galaxies, and other celestial objects for signs of life beyond Earth. The Technical Assessment Group (TAG) for HWO, consisting of 56 individuals, will focus on developing key technologies and design requirements. The HWO is expected to launch in the late 2030s or early 2040s and will utilize a coronagraph to block out starlight and analyze exoplanet atmospheres for potential biosignatures.