Polarisation Effects in Laser-Interferometric Gravitational Wave Detectors

Date: May 10, 2021
Time: 15:30 CEST
Event: Vienna Master Class Mathematical Physics Seminar
Location: Vienna, Austria

Abstract: We review the most commponly used models to describe the behaviour of light in laser interferometric gravitational wave detectors. I then describe extension of such models to include amplitude and polarisation effects, and discuss the signatures of these effects in the interferometric signal. Finally, I comment on the shortcomings of geometrical-optics based approaches and their resolution using wave optics.

Relevant publications:

• The response of laser interferometric gravitational wave detectors beyond the eikonal equation
• The electromagnetic field in gravitational wave interferometers