Gravitational-Wave Lunar Observatory for Cosmology
Abstract
Several large-scale experimental facilities and space-missions are being suggested to probe the universe across the gravitational-wave (GW) spectrum. Here we propose Gravitational-wave Lunar Observatory for Cosmology (GLOC) - the first concept design in the NASA Artemis era for a GW observatory on the Moon. Using feasible interferometer technologies, we find that a lunar-based observatory is ideal for probing GW frequencies in the range between deci-Hz to 5 Hz, an astrophysically rich regime that is very challenging for both Earth- and space-based detectors. GLOC can survey binaries with neutron stars, stellar and intermediate-mass black holes to $\gtrsim 70\%$ of the observable volume of our universe without significant background contamination. The sensitivity at $\mathcal{O}(1~\mathrm{Hz})$ allows a unique window into calibrating Type Ia supernovae. At its ultimate sensitivity limits, GLOC would trace the Hubble expansion rate up to redshift $z \sim 3$ and test General Relativity and $\Lambda$CDM cosmology up to $z\sim 350$.
- Publication:
-
arXiv e-prints
- Pub Date:
- July 2020
- DOI:
- 10.48550/arXiv.2007.08550
- arXiv:
- arXiv:2007.08550
- Bibcode:
- 2020arXiv200708550J
- Keywords:
-
- General Relativity and Quantum Cosmology;
- Astrophysics - Cosmology and Nongalactic Astrophysics;
- High Energy Physics - Phenomenology
- E-Print:
- Published in the Journal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics (24 June 2021)