Geb. 06.42 - Raum 001 (Seminarraum) / Online

14 Juli 2026

Mike Lindner

15:30 Uhr

Abstract

Exploring the largest processes in faraway galaxies requires measuring the smallest signals. Earthbound gravitational wave detection is strongly affected by environmental noise conditions, including seismic noise. To address this issue, the next generation of detectors is going subsurface to naturally reduce the influence of seismic activities above 2 Hz. Likewise, associated research and technology development require low seismic laboratory conditions.

The newly founded Deutsche Zentrum für Astrophysics (DZA) is located in Görlitz, Saxony, and will operate a Low Seismic Lab (LSL) in the nearby Oberlausitz region, which is based on the Lausitz Granodiorite massif. 

Marked by decades of mining activity for coal, lignite, and other materials, an unprecedented treasure of legacy data is available to re-explore the subsurface with a new goal in mind: to identify the location to build an LSL. The location is required to exhibit low natural seismic noise, solid bedrock, minimal water inflow, and favorable surface infrastructures.

Within a commissioned project involving partners from KIT, GFZ, TUBAF, Fraunhofer IEG, and the Saxony Geological State Service, these data were re-evaluated using new techniques. Additional measurements, including active seismics, ambient noise arrays, gravimetry, and several cored and instrumented boreholes, provide further insight into the structure and noise condition. 

In this talk, I will provide an overview of the current status of the LSL project and give insight into upcoming related and associated measurement activities in the region.