The continued importance of habitability studies

TL;DR

This paper emphasizes the ongoing importance of habitability studies in exoplanet research, highlighting recent advances, the need for integrated modeling efforts, and technological improvements for future observational and modeling capabilities.

Contribution

It advocates for continued development of theoretical climate models and improved observations to better understand planetary habitability.

Findings

Recent advances in climate modeling are crucial for habitability assessments.

Interactions between 1-D and 3-D models are needed to resolve discrepancies.

Technological improvements are essential for future habitability observations.

Abstract

This is a white paper in response to the National Academy of Sciences "Exoplanet Science Strategy" call. We summarize recent advances in theoretical habitability studies and argue that such studies will remain important for guiding and interpreting observations. Interactions between 1-D and 3-D climate modelers will be necessary to resolve recent discrepancies in model results and improve habitability studies. Observational capabilities will also need improvement. Although basic observations can be performed with present capabilities, technological advances will be necessary to improve climate models to the level needed for planetary habitability studies.