From 18 to 20 March, three intense days focused on the future of research in Sardinia, during which the latest scientific and management developments related to Italy's bid for the Einstein Telescope were discussed. During the event, a memorandum of understanding was signed between GARR and the Region of Sardinia, and the project for the future research centre ET-SUnLab (Einstein Telescope Sardinia Underground Laboratory) was presented. These three synergistic and significant initiatives aim to strengthen Italy's candidacy and attract investment to the region.
On 19 March, the Regional Council of Sardinia, following a proposal by President Alessandra Todde, approved the memorandum of understanding between the Region and GARR for the interconnection of the regional telematics network with the new high-speed GARR-T network.
"Thanks to the new submarine connection and the expansion of the GARR-T network," explained President Todde, "Sardinia has the opportunity to become a hub for the national and international academic and scientific community. The new network will not only support the development of the ET project but will also serve a broader scientific community." The Region also plans to establish an Internet Exchange Point (IXP) to enhance the performance and resilience of the regional Internet network.
The interconnection of the GARR-T network with the regional network will ensure advanced connectivity to support research, innovation, and competitiveness. This agreement represents a key step in strengthening the bid for the Sos Enattos site to host the future Einstein Telescope gravitational wave observatory, particularly in terms of connectivity for the ET-SUnLab research centre, whose project was presented in Lula (NU) on 20 March.