The Lazuli Space Observatory: Opportunities for time-domain and multi-messenger astronomy
The Lazuli Space Observatory: Opportunities for time-domain and multi-messenger astronomy
T. Wevers, T. J. Maccarone, A. Palmese, D. J. Sand, S. Gezari, L. Rivera Sandoval, J. DiPalma, G. Hosseinzadeh, T. J. Hoyt, M. Karmen, J. Kennea, K. Kunnumkai, S. Perlmutter, M. Rigault, A. Roy, G. Stefansson, F. Yang Yang
AbstractAdvancing time-domain and multi-messenger astronomy requires a multi-wavelength network of observatories capable of rapidly discovering, classifying, and characterizing transient phenomena. A critical gap in current capabilities is the inability to follow up faint, fast-evolving transients with sensitive, wide-band imaging and spectroscopic observations from space on timescales of minutes to hours. We discuss how the Lazuli Space Observatory will address this gap through a large collecting area, optical/NIR photometry and low-resolution integral field spectroscopy, and a rapid-response architecture with a mission requirement of $<$4 hours from trigger to first photon. Based on a latency analysis, we find a credible path to realizing response times well below this requirement, with best-case scenarios below 90 minutes under favorable conditions. We highlight extragalactic science opportunities in currently un(der)explored parts of parameter space, including gravitational wave follow-up, kilonova characterization, supernova progenitor physics, and a wide variety of fast-evolving transients and high redshift events. We further outline new observational capabilities for Galactic time-domain science, including high frequency variability in accreting systems, precision astrometry of compact objects, and the detection of compact and ultracompact binaries, enabled by high-frequency, diffraction-limited imaging and astrometry. Together, its capabilities - combining flagship sensitivity with response times one to two orders of magnitude faster than existing large space observatories - position Lazuli to make transformative contributions across time-domain and multi-messenger astrophysics.