Inauguration of the lab “Interferometry and Quantum Optics for Gravitational Waves”

Abstract

Gravitational Wave Astronomy is providing humankind with a new method to investigate our Universe and the nature of space-time. This revolution has been accomplished by a world-wide scientific collaboration developing and operating interferometric detectors of gravitational waves, namely the two LIGOs, Virgo and KAGRA. The Virgo group at Trento is directly contributing to groundbreaking results both in observational and instrumental science. The new laboratory infrastructures will boost Trento R&D activities for future upgrades of the Virgo detector and the realization of Einstein Telescope, the next generation underground observatory in Europe.

Our experimental activities aim to achieve unprecedented results on the sensitivity of interferometric detectors by minimizing unfavorable effects of optical losses and quantum noise fluctuations. Optical losses degrade the coupling between the optical cavities which constitute the detector, and are among the more challenging technical limitations in current and next generation interferometric designs. To minimize optical losses, we are pursuing improved techniques for sensing and control of the shape of light beam wavefronts. The quantum nature of light poses fundamental limitations in all our measurements, which are already exploiting squeezed states of light. We are pursuing the development of tailored squeezed states and of integrated squeezed light sources. The latter can also favor squeezed light applications to other research fields, such as quantum computing and quantum cryptography.

Programma

4 October 2023 - Morning

9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. : guided tour of the lab (by appointment only, using the dedicated registration form), Department of Physics, PovoZero, Via Sommarive 14

4 October 2023 - Afternoon

2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.: Joint Colloquium Doctor G. Gemme and Doctor M. Punturo, "From LIGO-Virgo to Einstein Telescope: the present and the future of Earth-based gravitational wave detectors and observations", Room A102 - Polo Ferrari 1, Via Sommarive 5

4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. : Inauguration Ceremony, Department of Physics, PovoZero, Via Sommarive 14

5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. : Refreshments with the contribution of INFN-TIFPA, Department of Physics, PovoZero, Via Sommarive 14