An international network of three gravitational wave detectors is now in operation. Each detector has an individual noise level of approximately 6 x 10-19 in gravitational strain, and the detectors are in coordinated operation to look for coincident detection of gravitational waves. The LSU group plans continued operation of its detector in conjunction with the detectors from the Italian groups and the Australian group. Studies will be performed on the effects of signal-to-noise ratio on the estimates of time of arrival of a gravitational wave pulse. Continued operation in coincidence with these other detectors will look for gravitational wave pulses of amplitudes 10-18 or smaller. If none are seen, the lower limit of gravitational flux will be extended to lower values. R&D will be done on the continued development of the resonator-transducer-amplifier that has been responsible for the outstanding performance of the LSU antenna. This will involve continuation of the collaboration with the University of Maryland to develop robust and sensitive SQUID amplifiers for resonant transducers. In addition, there will be continued development of the TIGA advanced detector concept developed by this group.

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Division of Physics (PHY)
Application #
9511962
Program Officer
Richard Isaacson
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
1995-08-01
Budget End
1999-07-31
Support Year
Fiscal Year
1995
Total Cost
$1,486,845
Indirect Cost
Name
Louisiana State University & Agricultural and Mechanical College
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Baton Rouge
State
LA
Country
United States
Zip Code
70803