Bns_merger_graphic_squashed

This visualization shows the coalescence of two orbiting neutron stars. The right panel contains a visualization of the matter of the neutron stars. The left panel shows how space-time is distorted near the collisions. (Credit: Karan Jani/Georgia Tech)

Mission

As defined in the LIGO Laboratory Charter, the mission of the U.S. National Science Foundation Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory is to open the field of gravitational-wave astrophysics through the direct detection of gravitational waves. Our detectors use laser interferometry to measure the distortions in space-time occurring between stationary, hanging masses (mirrors) caused by passing gravitational waves. NSF LIGO is a national facility for gravitational-wave research, providing opportunities for the broader scientific community to participate in detector development, observations and data analysis.  

LIGO is funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) and operated by the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). LIGO's advanced detectors also received financial support for their construction from Australia, Germany, and the United Kingdom. LIGO detectors are available for use by members of the LIGO Scientific Collaboration (LSC), comprising researchers in partner institutions around the world.