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Dual-recycled cavity-enhanced Michelson interferometer for gravitational-wave detection
Guido Müller1, Tom Delker, David B Tanner
1Department of Physics, B100 New Physics Building, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611-8440, USA. mueller@phys.ufl.edu
Applied Optics
|March 18, 2003
Summary
A new length-sensing system for Advanced Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (Advanced LIGO) was successfully tested. This robust control scheme is essential for future gravitational wave detection experiments.
Area of Science:
- Physics
- Astronomy
- Interferometry
Background:
- Advanced Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (Advanced LIGO) utilizes a dual-recycled Michelson interferometer with arm cavities.
- Precise length-sensing and control are critical for interferometer performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe and experimentally verify a length-sensing and control scheme for a dual-recycled, cavity-enhanced Michelson interferometer.
- To establish a foundation for the sensing and control system of Advanced LIGO.
Main Methods:
- Derivation of first-order sensing signals for the proposed scheme.
- Experimental verification using a prototype tabletop interferometer.
Main Results:
- Successful demonstration of the length-sensing system's functionality.
- Validation of the scheme's robustness against deviations from the ideal design.
- Identification of potential areas for improvement.
Conclusions:
- The proposed length-sensing and control scheme is a viable option for Advanced LIGO.
- Benchtop experiments provide a basis for implementing the system in Advanced LIGO.