Impact of infrasound atmospheric noise on gravity detectors used for astrophysical and geophysical applications

Abstract

Density changes in the atmosphere produce a fluctuating gravity field that affect gravity strainmeters or gravity gradiometers used for the detection of gravitational-waves and for geophysical applications. This work addresses the impact of the atmospheric local gravity noise on such detectors, extending previous analyses. In particular we present the effect introduced by the building housing the detectors, and we analyze local gravity-noise suppression by constructing the detector underground. We present also new sound spectra and correlations measurements. The results obtained are important for the design of future gravitational-wave detectors and gravity gradiometers used to detect prompt gravity perturbations from earthquakes.