LOFAR-UK: Request for Continued Funding, 2021-2024, and LOFAR2.0 Upgrade

The Low Frequency Array (LOFAR) is a new-generation radio telescope operating at low radio frequencies, between about 30 and 240 MHz. With a sensitivity more than 100 times better than any previous telescope at these frequencies, high precision imaging capabilities, and an enormous field of view, LOFAR is by far the most powerful 100 MHz telescope on the planet. It is revolutionising our view of the low-frequency radio Universe.

LOFAR has an extremely broad and diverse science case, ranging from cosmological studies of the nature of the early Universe to understanding the physics of our own Sun and the impact of Solar activity on the Earth's environment. It is carrying out detailed studies of the formation and lifecycles of galaxies, and of the supermassive black holes within them that can reach a billion times the mass of our own Sun. It is allowing the study of the laws of physics in some of the most extreme astrophysical environments. With its wide range of capabilities, it attracts a very broad user community and has impact on many of STFC's strategic priorities.

LOFAR is an inherently international project. The core of the LOFAR array is located in the Netherlands, but receiver stations are spread around 8 partner countries in Europe, including the UK station at Chilbolton Observatory. The international stations greatly improve the imaging precision, and hence the scientific capability of the array.

This grant is concerned with retaining the UK's leading involvement in LOFAR for the next three years, through annual subscription fees, and the operation, maintenance and data transport for the UK LOFAR station. It will also support UK involvement in an on-going upgrade to LOFAR, known as LOFAR2.0, which will greatly increase the capabilities of the array at lower frequencies, and open up a wealth of new science goals.