- #1
- 3,307
- 2,530
Scientists used a laser interferometer, called the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO), to measure the tiny ripples in space-time caused by the collision of two massive black holes.
The detection of gravitational waves confirmed a major prediction of Albert Einstein's theory of general relativity and opened up a new window into the universe, allowing scientists to study objects and events that were previously invisible.
The confirmation of gravitational waves has opened up new possibilities for studying the universe, including the potential to observe and study events such as the merging of neutron stars and the formation of black holes.
The first detection of gravitational waves was announced in 2016, but the research and development leading up to this confirmation took over 40 years.
Studying gravitational waves can help scientists understand the origins of the universe, the nature of gravity, and the properties of black holes. It can also have practical applications such as improving technologies for accurate timekeeping and precision measurements.