Characterising the Directional Stability of Laser Sources for Future Gravitational Wave Detectors

Gravitational wave interferometers require ultra-stable lasers to achieve their ultimate sensitivity.

The stability of the “pointing” of the laser beam is of critical importance

In this project you will develop a new quadrant photodiode to measure the pointing stability of 2 µm lasers that we are developing for future detectors. It would suit students with an interest in electronics.

This project is part of the research program within the ARC Centre of Excellence for Gravitational Wave Discovery (OzGrav), and includes research toward upgrading the sensitivity of the current generation of detectors, analysing data from those detectors and the development of technology for future detectors.

• Professor Peter Veitch | Dr Sebastian Ng
• Research Area: Ozgrav
• Recommended honours enrolment: Honours in Physics