LISA and the LISA Science Team

TL;DR

LISA is a planned space-based gravitational wave detector set to launch in 2035, with a dedicated science team working to maximize its scientific potential in exploring low-frequency gravitational waves.

Contribution

This paper provides an overview of the LISA mission, its science objectives, and updates on the work of the LISA Science Team as of December 2025.

Findings

LISA will open a new low-frequency gravitational wave window.

The Science Team is actively preparing for mission launch and science operations.

Expected to detect a variety of astrophysical sources.

Abstract

LISA, the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna, due to launch mid-2035, is a large class space mission by the European Space Agency (ESA). In partnership with NASA and ESA-member states, ESA is on track to launch what is expected to be the first space-based gravitational wave detector. By hosting detectors in space, one gains access to a lower frequency band of gravitational wave sources and with them, a plethora of new science. To maximise this scientific gain, ESA and NASA selected 20 scientists for the LISA Science Team, to carry out and/or lead necessary actions on the run up to LISA launch. We give a short overview and update of the LISA mission, some of its science objectives and related waveforms, as well as the work of the LISA Science Team as of December 2025.