"Probing the Universe for Gravitational Waves:
First Upper Limits from LIGO"

Barry Barish
Caltech

Abstract

 
Einstein predicted the existence of gravitational waves in 1916 as a consequence of the general theory of relativity.  In his theory, concentrations of mass (or energy) warp space-time, and changes in the shape of such objects cause distortions that propagate through the Universe at the speed of light.  The Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) is being developed to be capable of the detection of gravitational waves from such sources as compact binary systems, spinning neutron stars, supernovae and even cosmological sources.  LIGO consists of two widely separated long baseline interferometers that will be used in coincidence.  The construction is now complete and the commissioning is well along.  The performance of the interferometers and the results of the first searches will be discussed, as well as the plans and prospects for the future.