An Introduction to LIGO: science, technology and research opportunities

Gravitational waves are ripples in the fabric of space and time produced by violent events in the distant universe, such as the collision of two black holes or shockwaves from the cores of supernova explosions. Gravitational waves are emitted by accelerating masses, much as electromagnetic waves are produced by accelerating charges. These ripples in the space-time fabric travel toward Earth, bringing with them information about their cataclysmic origins, as well as invaluable clues as to the nature of gravity. The Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) is a facility dedicated to the detection and observation of cosmic gravitational waves. An international body, the LIGO Science Collaboration, co-ordinates a network of detectors across the world to obtain coincidental detections and improve localisation of these sources in the sky. A proposal to build a similar detector, LIGO-India, is currently under review by the indian government. I will present a brief introduction to LIGO and associated research.