Project description
Gravitational-wave astronomy deepens insight into the universe
More than a decade since the first gravitational-wave detection, this new field of astronomy has changed how we perceive the cosmos. Detectors have identified hundreds of cosmic collisions and have revealed secrets about black holes, neutron stars, and the universe’s expansion. Next-generation observatories promise even deeper insights by capturing thousands more events with greater precision. Supported by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the GRAVITY project will develop new technologies to improve detector sensitivity and data analysis, sharing innovations in optics and quantum technology. Overall, the project aims to promote education and inspire new generations to explore the mysteries of gravitational waves and the universe.
Objective
Since the first detection of gravitational waves in 2015 and the multi-messenger observation of a binary neutron star merger in 2017, gravitational-wave (GW) astronomy has advanced rapidly, delivering groundbreaking discoveries in astrophysics, cosmology, and fundamental physics. The international GW network—LIGO, Virgo, and KAGRA—has detected over 200 sources, with ongoing upgrades to enhance sensitivity and astrophysical reach.
Future next-generation observatories, including the Einstein Telescope in Europe and Cosmic Explorer in the U.S. are set to begin operations beyond 2035. The Einstein Telescope will detect hundreds of thousands of compact-object mergers up to redshifts of a few tens, enabling precise measurements of the Hubble constant (H₀) and dark energy parameters, searches for dark matter candidates, new GW sources like spinning neutron stars and supernovae, and detailed mapping of compact-object mass distributions. Multi-messenger observations will further enrich our understanding of the universe.
The GRAVITY project fosters international collaborations on key experimental advancements for future detectors, including cryogenic techniques for thermal noise reduction, quantum noise suppression, and fused-silica-based suspensions. It will also focus on detector characterization, glitch identification, advanced data-analysis algorithms, and interdisciplinary data interpretation.
A crucial aspect is the transfer of knowledge to private companies, driving innovation in precision optics, quantum technologies, and advanced materials. These collaborations will enhance detector performance and create broader technological applications, benefiting both science and industry.
Gravitational-wave science, bridging classical physics, general relativity, and quantum mechanics, is also a powerful tool for outreach and education. Alongside cutting-edge research, GRAVITY will engage in educational initiatives and public outreach to inspire future generations.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
This project's classification has been human-validated.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
This project's classification has been human-validated.
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.2 - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
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Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-SE - HORIZON TMA MSCA Staff Exchanges
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2024-SE-01
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
06123 Perugia
Italy
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.