Institut Fresnel joins the Virgo Collaboration

Mission: to see ever more distant and ancient events

Gravitational waves are oscillations in the curvature of space-time, propagating at the speed of light. They are generated by highly energetic phenomena in the Cosmos, such as the fusion of two black holes or the explosion of a star. The Virgo Collaboration aims to build, operate and improve the Virgo gravitational wave detector, managed by the European Gravitational Observatory (EGO). The aim now is to extend the range of the detectors to see ever more distant and ancient events.

One of the main factors limiting this performance is the light scattered by the optical components used inside the instrument. Although minimal, this scattering is responsible for the presence of stray light on the detected signals, which is critical in terms of performance targets.

Institut Fresnel, recognized expertise

For over 30 years, the Institut Fresnel has been developing internationally recognized expertise in the metrology and modeling of light scattering phenomena, with a particular focus on advanced optical components. The CONCEPT team and the DIFFUSIF technology platform have become a reference center for space agencies and other players in the field of space optics and precision optics.

It was therefore a natural step for Institut Fresnel to be asked to become the first laboratory from Aix-Marseille Université and Centrale Méditerranée to join the Virgo Collaboration and become a full member in July 2022. The Institut Fresnel thus confirms its determination to place its know-how and expertise at the service of the academic and industrial community, and to develop it by taking on ever more ambitious challenges.