Speakers
Description
Future ground-based gravitational wave detectors, such as the Einstein Telescope and the Cosmic Explorer, will reveal the universe in gravitational waves throughout cosmic history. However, their realisation presents a set of unprecedented challenges. In this talk, I will focus on low-frequency gravitational waves, from a few Hz to a couple of dozen Hz. I will discuss the unique discovery opportunities that arise from detecting gravitational waves at these frequencies, particularly when in synergy with space-based detectors. I will then elaborate on the specific challenges and solutions for overcoming noise in this regime, focusing on gravity gradient noise, seismic noise and associated control noise, as well as quantum noise. Significant progress has been made in all these areas; however, achieving the incredible sensitivity of a detector like the Einstein Telescope still relies on optimistic assumptions about technological development in the near future. I will discuss some of the specific risks and mitigation strategies. Finally, I will conclude by sharing my personal perspective on how we can design such future detectors by working together as an interconnected but diverse community.