Search for a command to run...
The HARPS/NIRPS tandem on ESO 3.6m telescope has recently demonstrated its high efficiency for exoplanets detection and atmospheric characterization thanks to cutting-edge technologies such as AO, fibre scrambling, cryogenics, ultra-high stability, high-resolution spectroscopy, and high-precision radial velocity. In P116 period, HARPS/NIRPS was the most demanded ESO instrument, with a combined request of 3277 hours. These high-precision spectrographs are key facilities for long-term monitoring and large dedicated survey in support of space mission such as TESS, Gaia, and PLATO, and with comple- mentary characterization with VLT facilities. We present a mono-mode fibre-fed K-band spectrograph forsimultaneous observation with HARPS and NIRPS with the objective of covering 378 – 2400nm in one shot. Several developments are also underway on laser frequency combs for accurate and precise wave- length calibration, with the unique possibility of testing and validating them at La Silla on state-of-the-art spectrographs. In addition of being scientifically perfectly complementary to VLT, these programs and instrumental developments will also be relevant in demonstrating proof of concept for future VLT (and ELT) instruments and will constitute the ideal training ground for engineers and astronomers. For these and even more reasons, these projects, and particularly the K-arm of NIRPS, should be integrated into the strategic discussion and brainstorming of the "VLT beyond 2030".