Gravitational waves are an exciting tool to observe the Universe, including obtaining information about objects which otherwise appear ‘dark’, such as black holes. Large-scale, highly-reflective mirrors with sub-ppm optical absorption are key components of interferometric gravitational-wave detectors. However, their coating thermal noise limits the detectors’ sensitivity. Coating thermal noise reduction is the main motivation for operating future detectors, such as parts of the Einstein Telescope, at cryogenic temperatures. However, cryogenics alone do not solve the problem. This presentation will give an overview of the requirements, challenges and status of coating development for the Einstein Telescope.
- 15:30-15:55
- Lectures hall 1
