NASA Exoplanet Program targets habitable worlds via simulations

Scientists at Arizona State University are using simulated data to help prioritize targets for the proposed Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO). The HWO, expected to be completed in the 2040s, is a large space telescope designed to directly image planets within the habitable zones of Sun-like stars to search for signs of life.

Researchers utilized the DYNAmical Multi-planet Injection TEster (DYNAMITE) software to analyze 164 Sun-like stars from the NASA Exoplanet Exploration Program (ExEP) list. By generating 100,000 simulated planetary systems for a subset of 134 stars, the team assessed the likelihood of stable, terrestrial planets existing in habitable zones. This modeling helps identify which star systems are most promising for future observation.

In related developments within the field, NASA’s Exoplanet Exploration Program is accepting applications for its 2027 ExoExplorers Science Series. This program supports the professional development of PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers through webinars and mentorship from established scientists.