‘A new era of scientific excellence’
The Einstein Telescope will have a second test site in the Euregio Meuse-Rhine, alongside the ETpathfinder: ET-CRISTAL (Einstein Telescope CRyogenics and Inertial STAbility Lab). Inaugurating the start of construction at the CSL (Centre Spatial de Liège) on 22 October 2024, Anne-Sophie Nyssen, rector of the University of Liège (ULiège), stressed the central role of her institution in the candidacy for this new-generation telescope. For her, the University of Liège is one of the key players, but the success of this initiative depends on close international cooperation. ‘This project goes far beyond the borders of Wallonia and Belgium,’ Nyssen said, stressing the importance of cooperation with partners in Flanders, the Netherlands, Germany and the whole of Europe.
The potential location of the Einstein Telescope (ET) in the Euregio Meuse-Rhine (EMR) represents a unique opportunity not just for Wallonia, but for the whole of Europe. This ambitious project, which is competing to become one of the world’s centres for research into gravitational waves, could transform the region into a leading scientific crossroads, on a par with CERN for particle physics.
ULiège has been a driving force in the development of this project for over five years. Thanks to its geographical proximity to the potential site of the telescope, the university is playing a major role in preparing and setting up the necessary infrastructure. However, as the Rector pointed out, the project can only succeed if it is supported by an international dynamic. ‘ Belgium must join forces with the Netherlands, Germany and other European countries. Within Belgium itself, it is imperative to overcome regional divisions in order to carry out such ambitious projects ’, she added.
An international impact for science and the economy
Anne-Sophie Nyssen sees the establishment of the Einstein Telescope as a major scientific advance and a considerable economic lever for the whole of the EMR and Europe. ‘ Science and the economy must go hand in hand. Unlocking the mysteries of the universe is a dream we can realise with our European and international partners,’ she said. She drew parallels with other major scientific platforms, such as the GIGA or the STARESO oceanographic station, which have generated socio-economic and scientific spin-offs for their host regions.
The potential impact of the Einstein Telescope is not limited to astrophysical discoveries. The construction and development of the platform will require technological advances in a variety of fields, including materials, drilling techniques and circularity. For the Rector, this represents a unique opportunity to stimulate research throughout the EMR region, making it even more attractive to researchers and students from all over the world. ‘ In 60 years‘ time, when the ET will have been operational for a long time, the whole EMR will have been transformed into an international centre of attraction,’ she declared.
ET-CRISTAL: A European asset for the Einstein Telescope project
The ET-CRISTAL test site, inaugurated at the CSL, embodies the commitment of ULiège and Wallonia to supporting the development of the Einstein Telescope. Funded to the tune of 3.75 million euros, this laboratory is dedicated to research into cryogenics and inertial stability, essential elements for the success of the telescope. The new facilities, scheduled to be operational in 2026, will double the capacity of the clean rooms and storage facilities at the CSL, providing an optimal environment for research and development related to the ET project.
The Rector welcomed the political support expressed at the opening event by Ministers Jeholet and Dolimont, which illustrates the strong commitment of the Walloon government. ‘This political support is crucial if the project is to be able to pool the efforts needed to ensure its success on a European scale,’ she said. For her, the Einstein Telescope is the promise of a new era of ‘Big Science’ in the EMR, with significant long-term benefits for research and the economy, both regionally and internationally.
Towards a research revolution in the Euregio Meuse-Rhine and in Europe
ULiège, in close collaboration with its European partners, hopes that the possible establishment of the Einstein Telescope in the EMR will mark the start of a new era of scientific excellence. Anne-Sophie Nyssen expressed her vision of a project that transcends borders, capable of strengthening international collaborations and inspiring large-scale technological innovation. ‘ The strength of this project lies in its collaborative and international nature. It is not just a Walloon or Belgian initiative, but a project for the whole of Europe,’ she concluded.
With past success stories such as the CSL, founded 60 years ago, ULiège and its partners hope that the Einstein Telescope will be the next major milestone in a tradition of innovation, collaboration and scientific leadership. With the support of the international community and local stakeholders, the EMR could become a world centre for gravitational wave research, boosting the scientific and economic attractiveness of the entire region.
By: Arnaud Stiepen
