Demonstration of a next-generation wavefront actuator for gravitational-wave detection
This paper introduces FROSTI, a prototype wavefront actuator that uses thermal radiation to precisely correct mirror distortions in next-generation gravitational-wave detectors. It successfully demonstrates the device's ability to provide higher-order wavefront corrections, maintain high-intensity stability, and meet ultra-high vacuum standards, paving the way for significantly improved detector sensitivity. While promising, the system is currently a prototype optimized for a specific mirror type, and higher-power noise testing is still projected.