Detector Description and Performance for the First Coincidence Observations between LIGO and GEO

TL;DR

This paper details the instruments and data from the first coincident operation of LIGO and GEO detectors in 2002, providing insights into their performance and setting new upper limits on gravitational wave flux.

Contribution

It introduces the detector configurations and data analysis methods used during the first coincidence observation between LIGO and GEO.

Findings

Data collected in 2002 improved upper limits on gravitational wave flux.

Demonstrated the operational capability of LIGO and GEO detectors in coincidence.

Provided detailed descriptions of the instruments and data for future analysis.

Abstract

For 17 days in August and September 2002, the LIGO and GEO interferometer gravitational wave detectors were operated in coincidence to produce their first data for scientific analysis. Although the detectors were still far from their design sensitivity levels, the data can be used to place better upper limits on the flux of gravitational waves incident on the earth than previous direct measurements. This paper describes the instruments and the data in some detail, as a companion to analysis papers based on the first data.