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Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory (view source)
Revision as of 04:07, February 12, 2016
, 04:07, February 12, 2016LIGO's operation explained
The '''Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory''' (LIGO) is a large scientific project with the goal of detecting [[gravitational waves]].
The '''Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory''' (LIGO) is a large scientific project with the goal of detecting [[gravitational waves]].
LIGO "consists of two detectors situated 1,865 miles (3,002 kilometers) apart in isolated regions in the states of Washington and Louisiana. Each L-shaped facility has two arms positioned at right angles to each other and running 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) from a central building. Lasers are beamed down each arm and bounced back by mirrors, essentially acting as a ruler for the arm. Sensitive detectors can tell if the length of the arms of a LIGO detector varies by as little as 1/10,000 the width of a proton, representing the incredibly small scale of the effects imparted by passing gravitational waves [which would supposedly distort the space and thereby affect the distance the laser beams travel]. LIGO has two observatories to act as a check on the other to rule out that a potential gravitational-wave signal detection is not due to a local, terrestrial disturbance; both facilities will detect a true gravitational wave moving at the speed of light nearly simultaneously. Although the twin LIGO facilities act as a single observatory, they are not designed for "observing" in the conventional sense. Instead of eyes, the facilities can be thought more of as "ears" listening for gravitational waves, or even as a skin trying to "feel" the slightest of movements."<ref>http://www.kavlifoundation.org/how-ligo-works</ref>
As it is based on the discredited [[Theory of relativity]] its chances of success are slim, but necessity is the mother of invention. In 2010, a paper was written and sent for publication claiming that LIGO had detected gravity waves. The alleged detected gravity waves turned out to be a hoax.
As it is based on the discredited [[Theory of relativity]] its chances of success are slim, but necessity is the mother of invention. In 2010, a paper was written and sent for publication claiming that LIGO had detected gravity waves. The alleged detected gravity waves turned out to be a hoax.