Sensing the Undetected

Szabolcs Márka[1]

 LIGO[2] Laboratory[3], California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California, USA

Abstract

Interferometric gravitational wave detectors are in their commissioning or construction phase in North America, Europe, and Japan. Once completed, this worldwide network of detectors will be capable of detecting gravitational waves with great detail and sensitivity. Their long-term ambition reaches well beyond the first direct detection of gravitational waves; they promise the dawn of a new field, the gravitational wave astronomy. The majority of these detectors are complete enough that running for extended periods is a routine exercise and short-term scientific results are promised. In this talk, I will summarize the status of the various detectors currently being developed with special emphasis on the LIGO Project.  I will also explain the fundamental limiting factors and the scientific reach of these instruments, outlining what gravitational-wave astronomy is likely to teach us about the universe. I will also point out the potential future, and benefits of collaboration amongst gravitational wave detectors.