Improving the Data Quality of Advanced LIGO Based on Early Engineering Run Results

TL;DR

This paper discusses the improvements in data quality and sensitivity of Advanced LIGO detectors achieved through commissioning efforts, noise reduction, and characterization, preparing for the first observing run in late 2015.

Contribution

It details the specific efforts and results in enhancing LIGO's data quality and sensitivity prior to its first observing run, marking a significant advancement over previous configurations.

Findings

Enhanced detector sensitivity surpassing previous LIGO configurations

Significant reduction in noise transients affecting data quality

Improved data quality metrics for gravitational-wave searches

Abstract

The Advanced Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO) detectors have completed their initial upgrade phase and will enter the first observing run in late 2015, with detector sensitivity expected to improve in future runs. Through the combined efforts of on-site commissioners and the Detector Characterization group of the LIGO Scientific Collaboration, interferometer performance, in terms of data quality, at both LIGO observatories has vastly improved from the start of commissioning efforts to present. Advanced LIGO has already surpassed Enhanced LIGO in sensitivity, and the rate of noise transients, which would negatively impact astrophysical searches, has improved. Here we give details of some of the work which has taken place to better the quality of the LIGO data ahead of the first observing run.