Coherent Noise Cancellation for Optomechanical Sensing and Gravitational Wave Detectors (C10#)

• Subject Area: Optics, Quantum Optics and Physics of Atoms, Molecules and Plasmas
• Term: from 2011 to 2014
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 5485423

In the new project C10 we will explore coherent feed-forward control for quantum noise cancellation (QNC) in optomechanical sensing. Quantum noise provides the limit to measurement precision in various physical systems ranging from atomic spin measurements, via displacement sensing in micro-optomechanical setups to gravitational wave detectors. Techniques for coherent quantum noise cancellation will allow to improve on and surpass these limitations. Our project will experimentally and theoretically investigate QNC techniques in quantum optical systems. In tabletop experiments on interferometer subsystems { such as the laser system or suspended cavity mode cleaners { we will provide valuable results guiding the way to coherent control of gravitational wave detectors. On the theoretical side we will explore connections, generalisations and applications of QNC techniques which have been put forward independently in the context of interferometric displacement sensing and precision measurements of atomic spins. The research performed in this project will serve to enhance the sensitivity of next generation interferometric gravitational wave detectors.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 7: Gravitational Wave Astronomy
• Applicant Institution: Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena
• Co-Applicant Institution: Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Universität Hannover
• Project Head: Professorin Dr. Michèle Heurs