LIGO (Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory)

LIGO (Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory) is a scientific instrument designed to detect tiny ripples in spacetime called gravitational waves, which are caused by massive cosmic events like merging black holes or neutron stars. It uses laser beams sent down long, perpendicular tunnels, reflecting off mirrors at the ends. When a gravitational wave passes, it slightly alters the distances the lasers travel, creating measurable interference patterns. By analyzing these patterns, scientists can study phenomena in the universe that emit these waves, opening a new window to understand the cosmos.