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http://www.nasa.gov/vision/universe/starsgalaxies/gwave.htmlNASA scientists have reached a breakthrough in computer modeling that allows them to simulate what gravitational waves from merging black holes look like. The three-dimensional simulations, the largest astrophysical calculations ever performed on a NASA supercomputer, provide the foundation to explore the universe in an entirely new way.
According to Einstein's math, when two massive black holes merge, all of space jiggles like a bowl of Jell-O as gravitational waves race out from the collision at light speed.
Previous simulations had been plagued by computer crashes. The necessary equations, based on Einstein's theory of general relativity, were far too complex. But scientists at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md., have found a method to translate Einstein's math in a way that computers can understand.
Whoa! That's a lot of ergs! Nice summary article but I'de like to see some info on how the energy output is calculated to be that high since the masses might be large but still finite.These mergers are by far the most powerful events occurring in the universe, with each one generating more energy than all of the stars in the universe combined.
Different strengths I can understand; based on mass. But since we haven't yet any confirmed detection of "gravity waves", how (does anyone know) that they will or can vary in wavelength? Are we considering that gravity waves will have a "spectrum" as with EM radiation?These massive, colliding objects produce gravitational waves of differing wavelengths and strengths, depending on the masses involved.
NASA was able to simulate and accurately predict the behavior of a black hole using complex computer algorithms and data from real-life observations. This breakthrough allows scientists to better understand the physics of black holes, which are some of the most mysterious and powerful objects in the universe.
NASA used a supercomputer called the Pleiades to run simulations of a black hole. The computer was fed data from telescopes and satellites that have observed black holes in space. This data was then used to create a model that accurately represents the behavior of a black hole.
This breakthrough allows scientists to study black holes in a way that was not possible before. By accurately simulating the behavior of a black hole, scientists can gain a better understanding of how these objects form, evolve, and interact with their surroundings. This could also lead to new discoveries and advancements in our understanding of gravity and the universe.
The knowledge gained from this breakthrough could have practical applications in various fields, such as astrophysics, cosmology, and even engineering. By understanding the behavior of black holes, we may be able to develop new technologies and solutions that can be used in space exploration and other industries.
NASA will continue to study black holes and use their simulation capabilities to further advance our understanding of these mysterious objects. This breakthrough opens up new possibilities for future research and could lead to even more groundbreaking discoveries about our universe.