Australia's Role in Gravitational Wave Detection

Abstract

An enormous effort is underway worldwide to attempt to detect gravitational waves. If successful, this will open a new frontier in astronomy. An essential portion of this effort is being carried out in Australia by the Australian Consortium for Interferometric Gravitational Astronomy (ACIGA), with research teams working at the Australia National University, University of Western Australia, and University of Adelaide involving scientists and students representing many more institutions and nations. ACIGA is developing ultrastable high-power continuous-wave lasers for the next generation interferometric gravity wave detectors; researching the problems associated with high optical power in resonant cavities; opening frontiers in advanced interferometry configurations, quantum optics, and signal extraction; and is the world's leader in high-performance vibration isolation and suspension design. ACIGA has also been active in theoretical research and modelling of potential astronomical gravitational wave sources, and in developing data analysis detection algorithms. ACIGA has opened a research facility north of Perth, Western Australia, which will be the culmination of these efforts. This paper briefly reviews ACIGA's research activities and the prospects for gravitational wave astronomy in the southern hemisphere.

Technology developments for ACIGA high power test facility for advanced interferometry

“…During the third test at the HOPTF, the built-up power inside the cavity will be ∼200 kW. The radiation pressure force created by the transfer of momentum from photons will be of the order of 1.3 mN [18]. This is enough to cause the suspension pendulum to be deflected by 20 µm, about 40 times the cavity free spectral range [19].…”

Status of ACIGA High Power Test Facility for advanced interferometry

“…This creates an optical spring effect, which can be difficult to control. The radiation pressure force for 200kW will be of the order of 1.3mN when using a 50W laser 12 . This is enough to cause the suspension pendulum to be deflected by 20 m, which is about 40 times the free spectral range of the cavity 13 .…”