NSF’s MPS Advisory Subcommittee recommends Cosmic Explorer be selected as the Next-Generation US-based Gravitational Wave Observatory
National Science Foundation’s Mathematical and Physical Sciences Next-Generation Gravitational Wave Observatory Subcommittee’s report recommends that the Cosmic Explorer Observatory concept will be adopted by the NSF.[1]
Vicky Kalogera, Daniel I. Linzer Distinguished University Professor at Northwestern University and chair of the subcommittee, presented the findings at a March 26 meeting of the National Science Foundation’s MPS Advisory Committee. She highlighted the broad scientific discovery potential for next-generation gravitational-wave facilities and emphasized that the Cosmic Explorer 40km detector design has extraordinary potential for new discoveries while at the same time carrying the lowest technical risk. A variety of networks were recommended which include the operation of two Cosmic Explorer observatories in the US, LIGO India, and Europe’s Einstein Telescope. She emphasized the importance of Cosmic Explorer as a long-term investment in US science infrastructure.
[1] The subcommittee’s web page, charge, call for white papers, and final report can be found here [2] American Institute of Physics article on the MPSAC report can be found here by Stefan Ballmer on April 2, 2024