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Transducer Antenna for a Noiseless Gravitational Observatory

Objective

TANGO aims to pioneer the ultimate platform for High-Frequency Gravitational Wave (HFGW) detection,
opening an unexplored observational window in the 100 kHz–10 MHz band. This regime, where
cosmology and particle physics converge, offers the potential to unveil new physics beyond the Standard
Model.
Building on the MAGE and BAUSCIA experiments, TANGO introduces a radically new detection paradigm:
an array of piezoelectric Bulk Acoustic Wave (BAW) resonators parametrically coupled to superconducting
microwave cavities via rf-SQUIDs. This hybrid electromechanical architecture will leverage advanced
quantum metrology techniques, combining sideband cooling to reduce mechanical modes near their
quantum ground states and Backaction-Evading (BAE) readout. This strategy is designed to minimize
quantum fluctuations and measure forces below the Standard Quantum Limit (SQL), achieving a
breakthrough strain sensitivity approaching 1e-24 Hz^(-1/2) , an order of magnitude beyond current
technologies. The resulting microwave signal is then processed using quantum-limited amplifiers
(TWPAs), essential for preserving the ultralow noise level achieved after BAE measurements.
By asynchronously cycling cooling and BAE phases across multiple resonators, TANGO will provide
broadband, continuous coverage of the HF spectrum. Beyond HFGW detection, TANGO will pioneer the
quantum control of macroscopic objects and establish a new class of hybrid quantum sensors. TANGO
bridges gravitational-wave astronomy with quantum technology and will represent the starting point for
a new generation of quantum-enhanced detectors and precision measurement technologies.

Programme(s)

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Topic(s)

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.

HORIZON-ERC - HORIZON ERC Grants

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Call for proposal

Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.

(opens in new window) ERC-2026-STG

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Host institution

UNIVERSITA' DEGLI STUDI DI MILANO-BICOCCA
Net EU contribution

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.

€ 1 499 312,00
Address
PIAZZA DELL'ATENEO NUOVO 1
20126 Milano
Italy

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Region
Nord-Ovest Lombardia Milano
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
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Total cost

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.

€ 1 499 312,00

Beneficiaries (1)