NASA has taken a major step toward one of its most ambitious science goals as it searches for signs of life on planets beyond our solar system
On January 5, 2026, the agency announced the selection of several industry proposals to advance key technologies for the Habitable Worlds Observatory, a future flagship space telescope designed to directly image Earth-like planets orbiting stars similar to the Sun.
The Habitable Worlds Observatory would represent a major leap forward in astronomy. Its main objective would be to study distant planets and analyse the chemical composition of their atmospheres to identify potential indicators of life.
In addition to this groundbreaking search, the observatory would also support a wide range of studies about the universe and contribute to long-term exploration goals involving Mars and other destinations.
An extremely precise telescope
To meet its science objectives, the Habitable Worlds Observatory would rely on technology far more precise than any space telescope built before. The observatory’s optical system would need to remain stable at a level smaller than the width of an atom during observations. Even the slightest movement could interfere with its ability to detect faint planets near bright stars.
A key instrument aboard the Habitable Worlds Observatory would be a next-generation coronagraph. This device blocks the overwhelming light from a star, allowing much dimmer orbiting planets to be observed. The coronagraph planned for this mission would need to be thousands of times more capable than existing space-based versions, enabling scientists to see planets that closely resemble Earth.
Another defining feature of the Habitable Worlds Observatory is its planned ability to be serviced in space. This would allow astronauts or robotic missions to repair, upgrade, or replace components, extending the telescope’s operational life and increasing its scientific value over time.
Industry partnerships drive innovation
To help mature these advanced technologies, NASA selected multiple companies for three-year, fixed-price contracts. The chosen firms represent a broad range of expertise in spacecraft systems, propulsion, materials, and optical technologies.
The selected companies include Astroscale U.S. Inc., BAE Systems Space and Mission Systems, Busek Co. Inc., L3Harris Technologies, Lockheed Martin Inc., Northrop Grumman Inc., and Zecoat Co. Inc. Each company will contribute specialised capabilities to help solve the technical challenges required for the mission.
These awards are part of NASA’s wider plan to combine government leadership with commercial innovation. By working closely with industry, the agency aims to accelerate development timelines and reduce technical risks associated with such a complex observatory.
Building on decades of space telescope experience
The Habitable Worlds Observatory concept builds on decades of experience gained from earlier NASA missions. Lessons learned from the Hubble Space Telescope and the James Webb Space Telescope have helped shape the design philosophy for future observatories. The upcoming Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope will also contribute valuable insights, particularly in wide-field observations and advanced instrumentation.
Industry involvement in large space telescope development began as early as 2017 through NASA’s segmented telescope design efforts and continued with technology awards made in 2024. The newly selected proposals represent the next phase in preparing for a mission that could redefine humanity’s understanding of the universe.
As planning continues, the Habitable Worlds Observatory stands as a bold vision for the future of space science.
