Export citation

Export citation

Choose format for download:

Download Citation

    Detectability of nearby binary neutron stars with future sub-mHz gravitational wave missions

    Zhiwei Chen1,2,*, Youjun Lu2,1,†, Yuchao Luo1,2, Jihui Zhang1,2, Xiao Guo3, Jifeng Liu1,2, and Wei-Tou Ni4,5

    • *Contact author: chenzhiwei171@mails.ucas.ac.cn
    • †Contact author: luyj@nao.cas.cn

    Phys. Rev. D 113, 084013 – Published 7 April, 2026

    DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/llc6-jjxb

    Abstract

    Binary neutron stars (BNSs) are one of the most important gravitational wave (GW) sources, which provide key insights into the evolution of massive binary stars and nuclear physics. The Beyond Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA), Taiji, and Tianqin missions’ proposed concepts for next-generation space-based GW observatories, including LISAmax, Folkner, and eASTROD, aim to explore the submillihertz (mHz) to microhertz frequency band. Because the proposed designs substantially suppress low-frequency noise, these detectors are expected to outperform LISA, Taiji, and Tianqin in detecting eccentric Galactic BNS systems. In this paper, we estimate the detectability of nearby inspiraling BNSs using future sub-mHz GW detectors. By utilizing compact binary population synthesis simulations to generate mock BNS samples and estimate their signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) correspondingly for each GW detector over an observation period of five to ten years, we find that LISAmax may detect ∼520–900 Galactic BNSs, whereas Folkner and eASTROD may detect ∼780–1370 Galactic BNSs. Notably, LISAmax excels in detecting highly eccentric systems (e>0.90) owing to its higher sensitivity at relatively higher sub-mHz frequencies. We further identify seven observed radio BNSs as viable candidates for validation, in particular, J0737-3039, which reaches an SNR of ∼100. The expected detection number of Large Magellanic Cloud inspiraling BNSs is ∼4–18 for these sub-mHz detectors over an observation period of five to ten years, while detecting inspiraling BNSs in the Small Magellanic Cloud is challenging. This study highlights the significant potential of future sub-mHz GW missions in unraveling BNS formation and evolution physics.

    Physics Subject Headings (PhySH)

    Authorization Required

    We need you to provide your credentials before accessing this content.

    References (Subscription Required)

    Outline

    Information

    Sign In to Your Journals Account

    Filter

    Filter

    Article Lookup

    Enter a citation