研究目的
To compare the noise characteristics of different phase reference implementations for the LISA mission's backlink system, aiming for a non-reciprocity of at most 2π μrad √Hz?1 in the frequency band from 0.1 mHz to 1 Hz.
研究成果
The experiment demonstrates the feasibility of maintaining interferometric contrast and reducing tilt-to-length coupling with a free beam connection, showing sufficient thermal stability and operational control over more than a week. The results support the ongoing design and optimization of the LISA optical bench, highlighting the need for further noise hunting and comparison of phase reference schemes to meet the mission's stringent requirements.
研究不足
The experiment's limitations include the potential increase in fiber back scatter levels due to radiation damage in flight, the challenge of suppressing more than two orders of magnitude with balanced detection, and the constraints on the stability or readout of signal amplitudes due to low-frequency amplitude drifts.