Context

• Astronomers confirm existence of gravitational waves through pulsar observations.

Nature and Origin

• Gravitational waves are ripples in space-time from energetic cosmic events.
• Predicted by Einstein's General Theory of Relativity (1916).

Production of Gravitational Waves

• Cataclysmic Events: Colliding black holes, supernovae, and neutron star collisions.
• Neutron Star Rotation: Non-spherical neutron stars and potential Big Bang remnants.

Challenges in Detection

• Weak interaction with matter makes gravitational waves hard to detect.
• Initial detection in 2015 by LIGO experiment with laser interferometers.

Detection Process

• Sensitive interferometers (e.g., LIGO) measure space-time disturbances.
• Gravitational waves cause minuscule changes in interferometer readings.

GMRT's Role

• India's GMRT(Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope ) contributes to vital observations supporting gravitational wave evidence.
• Collaborative effort of global observatories strengthens findings.

Significance

• Confirmation of gravitational waves validates Einstein's theory and enhances cosmic understanding.
• Opens new avenues to explore the Universe through gravitational wave astronomy.