Second Generation Gravitational-Wave Observatories

Document #:

LIGO-G1400721-v3

Document type:

G - Presentations (eg Graphics)

Abstract:

The Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO) and its European counterpart Virgo, the most advanced interferometric gravitational-wave detectors yet constructed, represent the promise of the first direct detection of gravitational waves. First, I will review observational results derived from the latest, 'enhanced', run which ended in 2010. After almost three years of upgrades, the second generation of detectors are nearly ready to resume observations, with a new run planned for 2015. I will give an overview of the upgrades that should enhance the sensitivity of these detectors beyond previous runs and provide a significant boost to the detection potential of several astrophysical sources. Following this, I highlight some possible scenarios for the detection of coalescences of compact objects. Over the next five years, it is planned that the updated detectors will alternate between periods of commissioning and data taking runs of increasing sensitivity. Consequently, I will outline the plan forward and science reach for the next five years. This will include the impact of the final designs of current second generation detectors and new detectors being constructed around the world.

Files in Document:

• vietnam.pdf (file is not accessible)

Topics:

• Public Talk / Colloquium
• Data Analysis
• Astrophysics / Multi-messenger

Authors:

• Chris Pankow