LUVOIR

LUVOIR, an acronym for **LU**nar **V**isible **O**ptical **I**nfrared **R**adiometer, is a proposed space-based observatory designed to advance astronomical research through high-resolution imaging and spectroscopy. Conceptualized as a successor to the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), LUVOIR is intended to explore exoplanets, distant galaxies, and other cosmic phenomena with unprecedented clarity. The mission is primarily driven by NASA’s Astrophysics Division, with contributions from international partners, including the European Space Agency (ESA) and other research institutions.

LUVOIR’s primary objective is to directly image and characterize Earth-like exoplanets within the habitable zones of their host stars. To achieve this, the observatory would employ advanced coronagraphic techniques to block starlight, allowing for the detection of faint planetary signals. Its large aperture—proposed to be between 8 and 16 meters—would enable high-resolution imaging across visible and near-infrared wavelengths, enabling detailed spectral analysis of exoplanetary atmospheres. This capability could reveal key biosignatures, such as oxygen, methane, or water vapor, which may indicate the presence of life.

Beyond exoplanet studies, LUVOIR would contribute to understanding the early universe by observing the first galaxies and black holes. Its sensitivity and resolution would also facilitate the study of star formation, planetary systems, and the chemical composition of celestial objects. The mission has undergone multiple concept studies, with ongoing evaluations of its feasibility, cost, and scientific return.

LUVOIR remains in the early stages of development, with no confirmed launch date or funding status as of recent assessments. Its success would depend on technological advancements in optics, starlight suppression, and space-based instrumentation. If realized, LUVOIR could revolutionize our understanding of planetary systems and the cosmos, building upon the legacy of previous flagship missions like Hubble and JWST.