Astronomy & Space Science · AST-481
Laser Interferometry & Detector Design: Foundations
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Overview
Core model: Laser Interferometry & Detector Design
Ground-based gravitational-wave observatories such as LIGO use laser interferometry to measure fractional changes in arm length far smaller than the diameter of a proton. They do not detect a literal displacement of one mirror alone; they compare optical path lengths in perpendicular arms while suppressing environmental and quantum noise.
Evidence behind this section3 claims
Ground-based gravitational-wave observatories such as LIGO use laser interferometry to measure fractional changes in arm length far smaller than the diameter of a proton.
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- 01Gravitational-Wave ScienceOpen source ↗
LIGO Scientific Collaboration
View claim-by-claim traceability3 verified claims
Ground-based gravitational-wave observatories such as LIGO use laser interferometry to measure fractional changes in arm length far smaller than the diameter of a proton.
supported · checked Sep 22, 2026A passing gravitational wave stretches one transverse direction while compressing the perpendicular direction, then reverses.
supported · checked Sep 22, 2026Independent observatories record consistent waveforms with relative arrival times compatible with light-speed propagation.
supported · checked Sep 22, 2026