Accelerating massive loose objects like asteroids generates gravitational waves that offer a peep into spacetime reality, but detecting them from Earth is very difficult because of various interferences. To overcome these problems, the European Space Agency and NASA are developing a Laser Interferometer Space Antenna dubbed LISA, a space-based Gravitational Wave Observatory. This will allow scientists to observe black hole mergers, binary star systems and the early universe, exponentially improving our understanding of astrophysical phenomena.
What is LISA?
The LISA project consists of three spacecraft arranged in space in a triangular formation, each separated by 2.5 million kilometers. Communicating with each other through lasers, the setup will allow for the detection of even small changes in distance between them.
LISA operates on the premise of employing accurate laser interferometry to detect minute distortions in spacetime generated by passing gravitational waves.
When gravitational waves occur they will deflect the spacecraft from its position, changing the distance between them. This change in distance will increase the time needed by the laser to reach the other spacecraft, which scientists will use to detect the occurrence of gravitational waves.
Unlike other gravitational wave observatories, the space-based observatory LISA is not constrained by terrestrial phenomena such as seismic interference and earth curvature.
The project cost is expected to be between $1.4 billion and $2.2 billion and planned for launch from Kourou, French Guiana, using an Ariane 6 rocket in the early 2030s.
Following the launch, LISA will take at least one year to reach its final orbit located 50 million kilometers from the Earth. ESA has chosen a complex trajectory to reduce low fuel consumption.
Space-based Gravitational Wave Observatory detecting waves in space. Source – Microsoft Designer
Features Of Gravitational Wave Observatory
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Advanced sensitivity:
It can detect changes in the distance between its spacecraft that are a fraction of the width of an atom. LISA will detect changes as little as 10 ^(-20) to 10^(-21) meters.
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Extended observation periods:
LISA observation periods are expected to last for 4 to 6 years but can be extended further based on mission success and the spacecraft’s condition.
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Greater availability of the changeable gravitational wave frequency spectrum
Its frequency range is between 0.1 mHz and 1 Hz, enabling the detection of gravitational waves from supermassive black hole mergers and possible signals from the early universe.
Location of different Gravitational wave observatories. Credit: wikimedia common
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