The search for gravitational waves

Document #:

LIGO-G1501331-v1

Document type:

G - Presentations (eg Graphics)

Abstract:

A prediction of Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity, gravitational waves (also called gravitational radiation) are amongst the most elusive signals from our Universe reaching the Earth – ‘ripples in the curvature of space-time’. The information carried by these signals will offer a completely new view of the Universe, providing insight into the hearts of some of the most violent events in the Cosmos – from the formation of black holes to the primordial events following the Big Bang. A global network of Advanced gravitational wave detectors is now starting operation with expectations of direct observations opening up the gravitational window of the Universe during the next few years.
The nature of gravitational waves, how the detectors work (including a potential detector in India) and what the data from the detectors can tell us about the Universe we inhabit will be discussed.

Files in Document:

• Cockcroft and Walton Lectures SR.pdf (6.1 MB)

Topics:

• Detector

Author Groups:

• LVC