Opening R&D call ET technology domain vibration damping
The second call for the R&D scheme Einstein Telescope (ET) for high-tech companies is open. The aim of the scheme is to stimulate innovation and accelerated development of new technologies for the Einstein Telescope. And thereby strengthen the future earning capacity of the Netherlands. This call is for the technology domain ‘vibration damping’. At this opening, a grant totaling € 2,750,000 is available, equally divided between two challenges within this technology domain.
About the domain vibration damping
In order to achieve the observational sensitivity of the Einstein Telescope (ET), most of the instrument must be made of high-precision components, drastically isolated from all sources of interference and in particular from seismic movements. Only in this way can noise be reduced to the point where it is possible to measure gravitational waves. Within this domain, the development of advanced vibration isolation systems for the core and auxiliary optics of the Einstein Telescope is central.
Who is eligible for the R&D scheme?
The scheme is open to individual companies and partnerships (consortia). The consortia can consist of startups and SMEs, large companies (corporates) and knowledge institutions. Specifically, parties are now seeking applications for projects that will contribute to the development and demonstration of advanced vibration isolation systems for the core and auxiliary optics of the Einstein Telescope.
Application process and timing
Program Manager Jorg van der Meij (LIOF): “We advise companies and knowledge institutions active in this specific field to contact us. A team of business developers is ready to answer questions. They can help with the application and with finding a cooperation partner. We also look at the possibilities of the technology for other applications.”
The call for the technology domain vibration damping is open until May 31, 2024 11:59 pm. Applications can be submitted via this website and they will be reviewed by an independent guidance group.
Einstein Telescope for business
The R&D scheme is part of the Einstein Telescope valorization program for high-tech companies. Regional development agency for Limburg LIOF is leading the national effort, also on behalf of the Ministries of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy, the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science and Nikhef. With three service points at the regional development companies BOM (Brabant), InnovationQuarter (South Holland) and Oost NL (East Netherlands), connections are being sought nationwide with high-tech ecosystems around the technical universities and consortia are being built together with industry and knowledge institutions. The aim of the program is to strengthen the candidacy for the arrival of the Einstein Telescope.
