Ultrastable performance of an underground-based laser interferometer observatory for gravitational waves

In order to detect the rare astrophysical events that generate gravitational wave (GW) radiation, a sufficient stability is required for GW antennas to allow long-term observation. In practice, seismic excitation is one of the most common disturbances effecting the stable operation of suspended-mirror laser interferometers. A straightforward means to allow a more stable operation is therefore to locate the antenna, the “observatory,” at a “quiet” site. A laser interferometer gravitational wave antenna with a baseline length of 20 m (LISM) was developed at a site 1000 m underground, near Kamioka, Japan. This project was a unique demonstration of a prototype laser interferometer for gravitational wave observation located underground. The extremely stable environment is the prime motivation for going underground. In this paper, the demonstrated ultrastable operation of the interferometer and a well-maintained antenna sensitivity are reported.