Noise Reduction in Low-Frequency Ligo Detectors

Faculty Mentor Name

Michele Zanolin, Ken Bordignon

Format Preference

Poster

Abstract

The objective of this project is centered on looking into how to improve the detection capabilities of low-frequency gravitational waves. The current generation of gravitational wave detectors are not focused on low-frequency signals, a few Hz to about 30Hz, and this project aims to characterize and reduce low-frequency noise in the detector so we can better detect these signals. One approach we are taking is building a torsional pendulum that can model the transferred motion of external vibrations to the gravitational wave detectors. Another approach we are taking is to implement active controls onto the pendulum system. This will limit the torsional range of motion of the pendulum to keep the system stable, as well as reduce noise in the low-frequency range. Since there is significant noise in the LIGO interferometer within the low-frequency range, reducing the noise will allow LIGO to detect these gravitational waves. Using our model of the LIGO suspension, we can alter its control properties to see how that affects the motion of our model. This will then allow us to design new pendulums and control systems that have more desirable characteristics to improve detection capability.

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Noise Reduction in Low-Frequency Ligo Detectors

The objective of this project is centered on looking into how to improve the detection capabilities of low-frequency gravitational waves. The current generation of gravitational wave detectors are not focused on low-frequency signals, a few Hz to about 30Hz, and this project aims to characterize and reduce low-frequency noise in the detector so we can better detect these signals. One approach we are taking is building a torsional pendulum that can model the transferred motion of external vibrations to the gravitational wave detectors. Another approach we are taking is to implement active controls onto the pendulum system. This will limit the torsional range of motion of the pendulum to keep the system stable, as well as reduce noise in the low-frequency range. Since there is significant noise in the LIGO interferometer within the low-frequency range, reducing the noise will allow LIGO to detect these gravitational waves. Using our model of the LIGO suspension, we can alter its control properties to see how that affects the motion of our model. This will then allow us to design new pendulums and control systems that have more desirable characteristics to improve detection capability.