: These are global electromagnetic resonances excited by lightning strikes in the cavity between the Earth's surface and the ionosphere. They create magnetic fields that are coherent over thousands of kilometers, potentially causing correlated noise between distant detector sites.
Magnetic fields interfere with the interferometer through several "coupling" mechanisms: Problems of intense magnetic field in gravitati...
: Interferometers use permanent magnets and coils to control the position of their mirrors (test masses). External magnetic fields exert direct forces on these magnets, moving the mirrors and creating a false signal. : These are global electromagnetic resonances excited by
: Devices within the observatory itself—such as power grid cables, motors, pumps, and electronics—generate localized magnetic fields that can interfere with sensitive detector components. External magnetic fields exert direct forces on these
: External factors like nearby electronic infrastructure or even passing trains can create detectable magnetic disturbances. 2. How Magnetic Fields Disrupt Detectors
Magnetic interference in GW detectors stems from both natural and human-made sources: