Searching for gravitational waves with LIGO

Document #:

LIGO-P070106-v2

Document type:

P - Publications

Abstract:

The Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO) detectors have reached their design sensitivity, and searches for gravitational waves are ongoing. We highlight current attempts to detect various classes of signals. These include unmodelled sub-second bursts of gravitational radiation, such as from core-collapse supernovae and gamma-ray burst engines. Gravitational waves from isolated neutron stars and from the inspiral/merger of compact binary systems carry information about the bulk properties of black holes and neutron stars. A stochastic background of gravitational waves of cosmological origin would provide a unique view of conditions in the very early universe. We discuss current attempts to detect gravitational waves from these sources and comment on future prospects for these searches.

Files in Document:

• P070106-02.pdf (319.7 kB)

Topics:

• Public relations

Authors:

• Patrick J. Sutton

Notes and Changes:

Revised version submitted to J Phys Conf Series for proceedings of HEP 2007, Manchester.

Publication Information:

http://www.iop.org/EJ/abstract/1742-6596/110/6/062024/