A next-generation Very Large Array

TL;DR

The paper outlines the design and scientific goals of the next-generation Very Large Array (ngVLA), a highly sensitive radio interferometer planned for the 2030s, aimed at advancing multiple fields in astronomy.

Contribution

It presents the reference design and key science objectives of the ngVLA, highlighting its enhanced capabilities over current arrays and its potential to address major astronomical questions.

Findings

ngVLA will have over 10 times the sensitivity of current arrays.

It will operate across 1.2-116 GHz, complementing ALMA and SKA1.

The array aims to study planet formation, galaxy evolution, and fundamental physics.

Abstract

In this proceeding, we summarize the key science goals and reference design for a next-generation Very Large Array (ngVLA) that is envisaged to operate in the 2030s. The ngVLA is an interferometric array with more than 10 times the sensitivity and spatial resolution of the current VLA and ALMA, that will operate at frequencies spanning $\sim 1.2 -116$ GHz, thus lending itself to be highly complementary to ALMA and the SKA1. As such, the ngVLA will tackle a broad range of outstanding questions in modern astronomy by simultaneously delivering the capability to: unveil the formation of Solar System analogues; probe the initial conditions for planetary systems and life with astrochemistry; characterize the assembly, structure, and evolution of galaxies from the first billion years to the present; use pulsars in the Galactic center as fundamental tests of gravity; and understand the formation and evolution of stellar and supermassive blackholes in the era of multi-messenger astronomy.