Gravitational-wave detector LIGO is back — and can now spot more
colliding black holes than ever.
What is LIGO?
LIGO stands for "Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave
Observatory".
It is the world's largest gravitational wave observatory and a marvel of
precision engineering.
Comprising two enormous laser interferometers located 3000 kilometers
apart, LIGO exploits the physical properties of light and of space
itself to detect and understand the origins of gravitational waves (GW).
What are Gravitational Waves?
Gravitational waves are 'ripples' in space-time caused by some of
the most violent and energetic processes in the Universe.
Albert Einstein predicted the existence of gravitational waves in 1916
in his general theory of relativity.
These cosmic ripples would travel at the speed of light, carrying with
them information about their origins, as well as clues to the nature of
gravity itself.
LIGO-Detectors:
Two massive detectors in Hanford, Washington, and Livingston,
Louisiana.
VIRGO detector is located near Pisa, Italy.
KAGRA, a gravitational-wave detector is located under Mount
Ikenoyama, Japan.
Note: The Indian Govt. in April 2023 approved a project to build
an advanced gravitational-wave detector in Hingoli, Maharashtra at an
estimated cost of Rs 2,600 crore. The facility’s construction is expected to
be completed by 2030.
