Gravitational Waves from the Ground Up

Other Versions:

Abstract:: The LIGO Lab in Livingston, LA, searches for gravitational waves or ripples in space-time caused by massive objects undergoing incredible accelerations -- such as colliding neutron stars. LIGO Science Education Center seeks to connect this active scientific research to the public through simple science activities and demonstrations. At LIGO-SEC students of all ages learn about gravity waves by developing their understanding of mechanical waves, sound waves, light waves, and general wave properties. Kathy Holt, LIGO Science Educator, will provide an overview of several low-cost demonstrations and activities that LIGO-SEC uses to explain wave properties and how an interferometer works. Demonstrations will bridge the gap from interference in a hanging wave machine to lissajous patterns from a membranophone. Material will be provided for participants to build at least one demonstration.

Files in Document:

Other Files:

LIGO Document G1100859-v1