I LIGO: How to Know Wave Direction?

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LIGO determines the direction of gravitational waves by analyzing the arrival times of signals at its two detectors, along with a third detector, Virgo. When a wave reaches the detectors, the time differences in signal arrival allow scientists to triangulate the wave's source. The varying amplitudes of the signals also provide additional information, as each detector has different orientations. This method effectively helps in pinpointing the origin of gravitational waves. Understanding these principles is crucial for advancing gravitational wave astronomy.
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Im sure you guys see a lot of this. I only come here when google has let me down for several hours.

How does LIGO know where the waves are coming from?
My guess is that they can get an idea of the direction of the wave based on how the arms are stretched of compressed.

Thanks.
 
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LIGO has two detectors, Virgo is a third detector. Based on the arrival times (e. g. "Virgo first, 20 ms afterwards at one LIGO site, 3 ms later at the other LIGO site") it is possible to figure out from which direction the gravitational wave came. The relative amplitudes help a bit as well as the different detectors have different orientations.
 
mfb said:
LIGO has two detectors, Virgo is a third detector. Based on the arrival times (e. g. "Virgo first, 20 ms afterwards at one LIGO site, 3 ms later at the other LIGO site") it is possible to figure out from which direction the gravitational wave came. The relative amplitudes help a bit as well as the different detectors have different orientations.
that makes total sense. thank you!
 

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