  CODEX is a high resolution spectrograph for the European ELT. CODEX is
conceived to reach the highest precision and stability, allowing the execution
of programs spanning many years. Several innovative technical concepts need to
be introduced to reach those excellent characteristics. Thus, the CODEX
consortium has foreseen the realization of a CODEX precursor at the VLT: the
ESPRESSO spectrograph. INAF is strongly committed in the ESPRESSO concept study
both in terms of financial and human resources.
