The National Science Foundation (NSF) awarded a 3-year, $150,000 project grant under the Mathematical and Physical Sciences (CFDA 47.049) program to Syracuse University. The grant supports the design of an upgrade to the LIGO (Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory) system, increasing the suspended test mass mirrors from 40 kg to 100 kg. The project aims to enhance the actuation and calibration systems to take advantage of the increased mirror mass and improve the sensitivity of the LIGO detectors to gravitational waves from astrophysical sources like binary black holes and neutron star mergers. As part of the effort, the team will investigate the performance of the current 40 kg test mass suspensions and explore novel actuation schemes, including the use of a high-power auxiliary laser. This work is expected to contribute to advancing gravitational wave detection capabilities and train students in STEM research areas.
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