Nature Podcast Detecting gravitational waves
Sep 12, 2025
Cole Miller from the University of Maryland joins the conversation, sharing insights from his work on gravitational waves. The discussion highlights the historic 2015 detection by LIGO, marking a pivotal moment in astrophysics. Miller explains how Einstein's theories paved the way for understanding these celestial events. Listeners will be fascinated by the significance of black hole mergers and the future of gravitational wave research, promising to deepen our understanding of the universe.
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Einstein's Wobbly Early Verdict
- Einstein initially oscillated between saying gravitational waves do and don't exist in early papers.
- His changing views delayed acceptance until the 1950s when the concept gained wider traction.
Pulsar Timing Confirmed Emission
- Pulsar timing gave the first indirect evidence for gravitational waves by measuring orbital shrinkage.
- Measurements showed orbital reduction on the order of millimetres per day, matching relativity's prediction.
Detect Tiny Ripples With Interferometry
- Use long-baseline laser interferometry to detect minute spacetime distortions from gravitational waves.
- Split a laser beam down perpendicular arms and watch for changes in timing when waves pass.