Silence measurements and measures for ET: characterisation of long term seismic noise in the M\'atra Mountains

TL;DR

This study analyzes long-term underground seismic noise in the Mátra Mountains to assess its suitability for the Einstein Telescope, providing insights into seismic conditions and measurement techniques for gravitational wave observatories.

Contribution

It presents a detailed characterization of long-term seismic noise in the Mátra Mountains and proposes refined evaluation criteria for underground gravitational wave detector sites.

Findings

Seismic noise levels are suitable for ET requirements

Comparison of two-week measurements shows stable underground conditions

Refined criteria improve site evaluation for gravitational wave observatories

Abstract

The analysis of long term seismological data collected underground in the M\'atra Mountains, Hungary, using the facilities of the M\'atra Gravitational and Geophysical Laboratory (MGGL) is reported. The laboratory is situated inside the Gy\"ongy\"osoroszi mine, Hungary, 88m below the surface. This study focuses on the requirements of the Einstein Telescope (ET), one of the planned third generation gravitational wave observatories, which is designed for underground operation. After a short introduction of the geophysical environment the evaluation of the collected long term data follows including the comparison of a two-week measurement campaign deeper in the mine. Based on our analysis and considering the specialities of long term data collection, refinements of the performance and evaluation criteria are suggested as well as performance estimation of a possible M\'atra site.