NASA reveals prototype telescope for LISA mission, detecting gravitational waves from space

NASA has provided a first glimpse of the full-scale prototype of six telescopes set to detect gravitational waves from space. These waves, caused by cosmic events such as black hole collisions, will be observed by the LISA (Laser Interferometer Space Antenna) mission. This mission is a collaboration between NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA) and aims to advance our understanding of the universe by using lasers to measure small distances between spacecraft.

The LISA mission and telescope design

The LISA mission will feature three spacecraft arranged in a triangular formation, with each side of the array measuring around 2.5 million kilometers. These spacecraft will communicate using infrared laser beams, transmitted and received by twin telescopes on each spacecraft. NASA is responsible for providing all six telescopes for this mission. According to Ryan DeRosa, a researcher at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, the prototype telescope, known as the Engineering Development Unit Telescope, is crucial in guiding the construction of the final flight hardware.

Telescope prototype inspection and materials

The prototype arrived at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in May and has since undergone inspection. Manufactured by L3Harris Technologies, the telescope is composed of a specialized material called Zerodur, which is a glass-ceramic known for its stability at different temperatures. Its primary mirror is coated in gold, which increases its ability to reflect infrared lasers and reduces heat loss in the cold environment of space.

Release schedule and future prospects

The LISA mission is expected to launch in the mid-2030s, marking a significant milestone in the detection of gravitational waves in space. This mission will help unlock deeper insights into the forces that shape our universe.