Project Grant 2513484

The National Science Foundation Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences awarded Syracuse University $245,956 on August 15, 2026, under the Mathematical and Physical Sciences program (CFDA 47.049) to develop advanced mirror coatings for third-generation gravitational-wave detectors, specifically the Cosmic Explorer.

The project addresses a critical technical barrier for the Cosmic Explorer's 40-kilometer arms, which will require 1.5 megawatts of optical power. The mirror coatings must achieve unprecedentedly low optical absorption while minimizing thermal noise from internal friction within the coatings themselves. The Center for Coatings Research combines materials science and gravitational-wave physics communities to design coatings meeting both optical and mechanical requirements for implementation in the detector. Beyond gravitational-wave observation, the research carries broader impacts on precision measurement technology, including applications to precision timing, quantum information, low-noise interferometry, and searches for deviations in the gravitational inverse-square law. Technological implications extend to the semiconductor, laser, and quantum computing sectors as the collaboration explores correlations between optical loss, mechanical loss, and other loss mechanisms. The project also provides research training opportunities for students across multiple education levels.

Performance occurs at Syracuse, New York, with work scheduled from the award date through July 31, 2028.