Researchers led by Daniel Jaffe of the University of Texas at Austin argue that the Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO), currently in its definition phase, should include a high-resolution near-infrared spectroscopy capability. The proposal centers on the idea that such instrumentation could improve the observatory’s ability to search for signatures of alien atmospheres, particularly in exoplanet systems. The articles note that extremely high-resolution near-infrared exoplanet observing has not yet been attempted, largely due to technological limitations. According to the researchers, recent advances now make a working version of this approach feasible. They point to two recent inventions or developments that, in combination, address key constraints that previously prevented the implementation of high-resolution near-infrared spectroscopy at the required performance levels. While HWO is not yet finalized and details of the mission remain under study, the new work is presented as an input to the ongoing technical planning process. The articles emphasize that the proposal is part of broader efforts to shape the capabilities expected from a major space telescope planned for the 2040s, rather than a confirmed instrument selection.