High Power Laser Science and Engineering, Volume. , Issue , ()

Impact of Seismic Activities on the Optical Synchronization System of the European X-ray Free-Electron Laser [Early Posting]

Grünhagen Arne, Schütte Maximilian, Lamb Thorsten, Schulz Sebastian, Eichler Annika, Tropmann-Frick Marina, Fey Görschwin, Schlarb Holger
Author Affiliations
  • Hamburg University of Applied Sciences
  • Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron
  • Hamburg University of Technology
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    This study investigates the influence of seismic activities on the optical synchronization system of the European X-ray Free-Electron Laser. We analyze the controller I/O data of phase-locked-loops in length-stabilized links, focusing on the response to earthquakes, ocean-generated microseism and civilization noise. By comparing the controller data with external data, we were able to identify disturbances and their effects on the control signals. Our results show that seismic events influence the stability of the phase-locked loops. Even earthquakes that are approximately 5000km away cause remarkable fluctuations in the in-loop control signals. Ocean-generated microseism in particular has an enormous influence on the in-loop control signals due to its constant presence. The optical synchronization system is so highly sensitive that it can even identify vibrations caused by civilization, such as road traffic or major events like concerts or sport events. The phase-locked loops manages to eliminate more than 99% of the existing interference.

    Paper Information

    Manuscript Accepted: Jan. 2, 2025

    Posted: Mar. 4, 2025

    DOI: HPL-0171