Siting the Cosmic Explorer Observatory

Cosmic Explorer (CE), a proposed next-generation gravitational-wave facility is searching for observatory sites. This interdisciplinary suitability analysis incorporates the need to make accurate scientific observations and the needs of the staff to have a good home to commute from nearby. The observatory will span 80 kilometers in the shape of an L with each arm of the L spanning 40 kilometers. Suitable locations must be within support CE’s scientific goals and retain a talented workforce in these areas. The site search poses unique challenges that CE is answering with an interdisciplinary approach. In recognition that the United States are on the ancestral homelands of sovereign Native Nations, CE aims to involve Tribal Communities during all phases of the project from concept through decommissioning. This research will describe the mixed methods Geographic Information Systems (GIS) approach being used to do a national site suitability analysis that ensures a location meets certain requirements for the observatory and the scientist who will work there. As such, this GIS national suitability analysis integrates social and scientific considerations. In this essay we elaborate on the workflow and variables used to find potential regions suitable for CE in the contiguous United States. Moreover, while some preliminary regions may now be deemed possible, CE’s site selection team recognizes that further work is needed within these regions. Future regional work will use local data along with community involvement through a proactive and iterative process long before a final recommendation list is proposed.