Large-scale monolithic fused-silica mirror suspension for third-generation gravitational-wave detectors

Cumming, A. V. , Jones, R., Hammond, G. D. , Hough, J. , Martin, I. W. and Rowan, S. (2022) Large-scale monolithic fused-silica mirror suspension for third-generation gravitational-wave detectors. Physical Review Applied, 17(2), 024044. (doi: 10.1103/PhysRevApplied.17.024044)

Abstract

Thermal noise from the suspension fibers used in the mirror pendulums in current gravitational-wave detectors is a critical noise source. Future detectors will require improved suspension performance with the specific ability to suspend much heavier masses to reduce radiation pressure noise, while retaining good thermal noise performance. In this paper we propose and experimentally demonstrate a design for a large-scale fused-silica suspension, demonstrating its suitability for holding an increased mass of 160 kg. We demonstrate the concepts for improving thermal noise via longer suspension fibers supporting a higher static stress. We present a full thermal noise analysis of our prototype, meeting requirements for conceptual third-generation detector designs such as the high frequency interferometer of the Einstein Telescope, and closely approaching that required for Cosmic Explorer.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Cumming, Dr Alan and Rowan, Professor Sheila and Martin, Dr Iain and Jones, Mr Russell and Hammond, Professor Giles and Hough, Professor James
• Authors: Cumming, A. V., Jones, R., Hammond, G. D., Hough, J., Martin, I. W., and Rowan, S.
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Physics and Astronomy
• Journal Name: Physical Review Applied
• Publisher: American Physical Society
• ISSN: 2331-7019
• ISSN (Online): 2331-7019
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2022 American Physical Society
• First Published: First published in Physical Review Applied 17(2): 024044
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the publisher copyright policy

Project Code	Award No	Project Name	Principal Investigator	Funder's Name	Funder Ref	Lead Dept
173808		Investigations in gravitational radiation	Sheila Rowan	Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)	ST/N005422/1	P&S - Physics & Astronomy
310743		Investigations in Gravitational Radiation: 1-year extension	Sheila Rowan	Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)	ST/V001736/1	P&S - Physics & Astronomy