Six-degree-of-freedom vibration isolation systems with application to resonant-mass gravitational radiation detectors

Abstract

In this paper we discuss passive vibration isolation systems for ultralow temperature gravitational radiation detectors, using a detector at Stanford University as the primary example. We review the basic theory of such isolation systems and describe methods of analysis for one-degree-of-freedom isolators. With these methods we derive fundamental constraints on the performance of gravitationally loaded isolators. Next we discuss general design considerations, optimization, and detailed analysis of six-degree-of-freedom isolators. We conclude with experimental data from isolators designed for the Stanford gravitational radiation detector.