Laser Interferometer Lunar Antenna (LILA): Advancing the U.S. Priorities in Gravitational-wave and Lunar Science

TL;DR

LILA is a proposed lunar gravitational-wave detector aiming to fill the mid-band spectrum gap, enhancing astrophysics and fundamental physics research by leveraging the Moon's environment.

Contribution

It introduces a novel lunar GW observatory concept that complements existing and future detectors, advancing lunar science and gravitational-wave astronomy.

Findings

LILA will observe gravitational waves in the 0.1-10 Hz range.

It will improve understanding of the lunar interior.

The project aligns with U.S. lunar exploration initiatives.

Abstract

The Laser Interferometer Lunar Antenna (LILA) is a next-generation gravitational-wave (GW) facility on the Moon. By harnessing the Moon's unique environment, LILA fills a critical observational gap in the mid-band GW spectrum ($0.1 - 10$ Hz) between terrestrial detectors (LIGO, Virgo, KAGRA) and the future space mission LISA. Observations enabled by LILA will fundamentally transform multi-messenger astrophysics and GW probes of fundamental physics. LILA will measure the lunar deep interior better than any existing planetary seismic instruments. The LILA mission is designed for phased development aligned with capabilities of the U.S.'s Commercial Lunar Payload Services and Artemis programs. LILA is a unique collaboration between universities, space industries, U.S. government laboratories, and international partners.