LIGO Data Analysis

LIGO data analysis involves monitoring highly sensitive instruments called interferometers that detect tiny disturbances caused by passing gravitational waves—ripples in spacetime from cosmic events. The process filters out noise and background signals to identify genuine gravitational wave signals. Advanced algorithms compare the data against models of expected waveforms, ensuring detections are accurate. Once a potential signal is confirmed, scientists analyze it to learn about the astrophysical source, such as black hole or neutron star mergers. This meticulous process transforms raw data into valuable insights about the universe’s most energetic phenomena.