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Site-selection criteria for the Einstein Telescope
Florian Amann1, Fabio Bonsignorio2, Tomasz Bulik3
1Chair of Engineering Geology, RWTH Aachen, 52056 Aachen, Germany.
The Review of Scientific Instruments
|October 2, 2020
Summary
The Einstein Telescope (ET), a next-generation gravitational-wave observatory, requires careful site selection. This study outlines criteria and methods for evaluating potential locations to maximize ET's scientific potential.
Area of Science:
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Gravitational-Wave Physics
- Experimental Physics
Background:
- The Einstein Telescope (ET) is a planned underground gravitational-wave detector.
- It aims for a tenfold increase in sensitivity and lower frequency observations (3 Hz) compared to current detectors.
- Site selection is a critical early decision involving multiple complex factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of the site-selection criteria for the Einstein Telescope.
- To introduce a method for assessing the impact of environmental noise on ET's sensitivity.
- To outline the essential components of a site-characterization campaign.
Main Methods:
- Review and synthesis of scientific, financial, political, and socio-economic criteria for site evaluation.
- Development of a formalism to quantify the influence of environmental noise on detector sensitivity.
- Definition of key elements for a comprehensive site-characterization process.
Main Results:
- A structured framework for evaluating potential ET sites is presented.
- A quantitative method is proposed to assess environmental noise impacts.
- Essential parameters for site characterization campaigns are identified.
Conclusions:
- In-depth site characterization is crucial for the success of the Einstein Telescope.
- The proposed formalism and criteria will guide the selection of an optimal site.
- This work supports the strategic planning for next-generation gravitational-wave astronomy.
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