that makes total sense. thank you!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.
LIGO stands for Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory. It is a scientific collaboration between researchers around the world that is dedicated to detecting gravitational waves.
LIGO uses a complex system of lasers and mirrors to measure tiny distortions in space caused by passing gravitational waves. When a gravitational wave passes through the Earth, it causes the space-time fabric to stretch and compress, which is what LIGO is able to detect.
Detecting gravitational waves allows scientists to study and understand the universe in a completely new way. It confirms Einstein's theory of general relativity and provides insights into some of the most violent and energetic events in the universe, such as black hole mergers.
LIGO uses two detectors, one in Louisiana and one in Washington, to triangulate the source of the gravitational waves. By comparing the time it takes for the waves to reach each detector, scientists can determine the direction of the waves.
The technology used by LIGO has potential applications in various fields, such as precision measurements, quantum optics, and even navigation systems. It may also lead to the development of new technologies that could revolutionize our understanding of the universe and our place in it.