Cold-atom sources for the Matter-wave laser Interferometric Gravitation Antenna (MIGA)

Area of Science:

• Physics
• Astrophysics
• Geophysics

Background:

• Precision measurements of gravity gradients are crucial for fundamental physics and geophysics.
• Gravitational wave detectors require highly sensitive instruments capable of operating in low-noise environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the cold-atom sources for the Matter-wave laser Interferometric Gravitation Antenna (MIGA).
• To detail the design, realization, performance, and integration of MIGA's cold-atom systems.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing cold-atom interferometry for precision gravity gradient and strain measurements.
• Employing three spatially separated cold-atom interferometers driven by common lasers.
• Installing the instrument at the Laboratoire Souterrain de Modane (LSBB) for low-noise operation.

Main Results:

• Successful design and realization of cold-atom sources for MIGA.
• Demonstration of MIGA's integration as a prototype gravitational wave detector.
• Achieved precision measurements of gravity gradients along a 150-meter baseline.

Conclusions:

• MIGA's cold-atom sources are successfully implemented and integrated.
• The instrument serves as a viable prototype for future gravitational wave detectors.
• MIGA advances the field of precision gravity measurements using atom interferometry.