LISA Pathfinder

ESA's (European Space Agency) LISA (Laser Interferometer Space Antenna) Pathfinder spacecraft demonstrated technologies required for LISA, a future space probe designed to detect ripples in space-time called gravitational waves. NASA provided the mission’s disturbance reduction system, which consisted of a novel type of precision thruster and specialized controls for achieving drag-free flight. NASA scientists also participated in the science operations and analysis of LISA Pathfinder data.

Occurred 7 years ago

Mission Type

Space antenna

Launch

Dec. 3, 2015

Purpose

Technology demonstration

Decommissioned

June 30, 2017
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Artist's concept of ESA's LISA Pathfinder and its propulsion module after separation.
Credit: ESA
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