The European Gravitational Observatory (EGO) is a consortium established to manage the Virgo interferometer and its related infrastructure, as well as to promote cooperation in the field of gravitational wave research in Europe. It was founded December 11, 2000, by the French CNRS and Italian INFN, and is headquartered near Pisa, in the commune of Cascina.

Overview

EGO is established under Italian law. Its governing body is a council composed of appointees nominated by the consortium members (up to three councilors per member). The Council appoints a Director who is the legal representative and chief executive of EGO. A scientific advisory committee advises the council on scientific and technical activities carried out by the consortium. It is composed of up to ten scientific personalities. EGO pursues these main objectives:

Membership

The two founding members are the French CNRS and Italian INFN. The Dutch Nikhef joined as an observer in 2007 and a full member in early 2021.

Budget

EGO has an annual budget of €9 million split evenly between the French CNRS and Italian INFN. It also receives contributions in kind from the Dutch NIKHEF.