LIGO simulator using non-contact magnetic control of a Michelson interferometer

The Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO) detectors are large scale Michelson interferometers used to detect gravitational waves from sources such as binary black hole mergers or collisions of neutron stars. Michelson interferometers are very sensitive devices, operating based on differential changes in the optical path between their arms. Gravitational waves alter the optical path difference and change the interference pattern, sending a signal to the readout channel. We are creating a simulation of the LIGO detectors using a table top miniature Michelson interferometer, and are investigating the propagation of a magnetically induced disturbance in the frequency spectrum at the readout port. As a magnetic disturbance is periodically applied to one of the mirrors, it’s signature carried by the laser is detected in the measured signal, similar to the arrival of gravitational waves.