Benefits of Artificially Generated Gravity Gradients for Interferometric Gravitational-Wave Detectors

TL;DR

This paper proposes a method using a rotating mass device to evaluate gravity gradient noise and calibrate gravitational-wave detectors with high precision, potentially improving detection sensitivity.

Contribution

It introduces a novel experimental approach employing a Dynamic gravity Field Generator for noise evaluation and calibration of interferometric GW detectors.

Findings

Demonstrates feasibility of using a rotating mass to generate detectable gravity gradients.

Provides a pathway for sub-percent calibration accuracy in GW detectors.

Offers a new technique to assess gravity gradient noise impacts.

Abstract

We present an approach to experimentally evaluate gravity gradient noise, a potentially limiting noise source in advanced interferometric gravitational wave (GW) detectors. In addition, the method can be used to provide sub-percent calibration in phase and amplitude of modern interferometric GW detectors. Knowledge of calibration to such certainties shall enhance the scientific output of the instruments in case of an eventual detection of GWs. The method relies on a rotating symmetrical two-body mass, a Dynamic gravity Field Generator (DFG). The placement of the DFG in the proximity of one of the interferometer's suspended test masses generates a change in the local gravitational field detectable with current interferometric GW detectors.