During this lunch lecture, Steven Zijlstra, Rémy Rijniers and Tom Hundertmark (Tunnel Engineering Consultants) will take you on a journey through the development of the Einstein Telescope: a future European observatory for gravitational waves. This groundbreaking project aims to measure ripples in space-time with greater precision than ever before.

What makes the Einstein Telescope unique is that it is being built deep underground within a triangular tunnel system stretching for tens of kilometres. The speakers will discuss the combination of fundamental physics and complex civil engineering challenges involved in this project. This includes designing an extremely stable and vibration-free underground infrastructure, and translating strict scientific requirements into a feasible and constructible design with the least possible impact on ground level.

In their roles at Tunnel Engineering Consultants, they are working on the technical feasibility and design of this underground structure. They will provide an insight into how large-scale tunnel construction and high-tech research facilities come together in one of Europe’s most ambitious projects.

11.45 am – 12.00 pmLog in to MS Teams
12:00Introduction to KIVI-TTOW by board member Arjan Luttikholt)
12.15 pmPresentation by Steven Zijlstra
12.20Presentation by Rémy Rijniers
12.45Presentation by Tom Hundertmark
1.00 pmClosing remarks and theme for the next lunch lecture