The study, “Challenges and opportunities of gravitational-wave searches above 10 kHz” , brings together a large collaboration of researchers, including ICREA researcher at IFAE Diego Blas, and provides a comprehensive overview of the emerging field of high-frequency gravitational-wave detection.

Since the first detections by the LIGO and Virgo collaborations, gravitational-wave astronomy has opened a new observational window on the universe. However, most current detectors are sensitive only to relatively low frequencies. This work focuses on the largely unexplored regime above 10 kHz.

In this high-frequency range, the expected number of conventional astrophysical sources is limited. This makes it a promising domain to search for new physics beyond the Standard Model, including signals from the early universe, exotic compact objects, or particle candidates such as axions.

The paper reviews a wide range of proposed detector concepts—such as microwave cavities, quantum sensors, and other novel technologies—and compares their expected sensitivities to theoretical predictions. It also highlights the importance of coordinated efforts and networks of detectors to improve detection prospects.

The publication summarises the outcomes of a series of international workshops held between 2019 and 2023, reflecting the growing interest in extending gravitational-wave astronomy into new frequency domains.

This research is closely connected to IFAE’s activities in gravitational-wave physics and quantum technologies. In particular, it is aligned with the objectives of GravNet , a European ERC Synergy Grant project in which ICREA researcher at IFAE Diego Blas participates together with partners from leading European institutions, aiming to develop the first dedicated network of detectors for high-frequency gravitational waves. IFAE is also a member institution of the Virgo and LIGO collaborations and plays an active role in the development of the future Einstein Telescope, covering the full spectrum of gravitational-wave research from current observatories to next-generation and novel detection approaches.