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Gravitational Waves
Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:31:28
Abstract
A rapid but comprehensive exploration of current research in gravitational-wave detection and interpretation, covering theoretical foundations, detection methods, astrophysical sources, waveform modeling, and data analysis techniques, with the goal of gaining insight into the role of gravitational waves in modern astrophysics and cosmology.
Objective
An introduction to current research in gravitational-wave astronomy.
Content
1. Fundamentals of gravitational waves: general relativity, curvature, strain; wave equation, quadrupole formula; polarization; energy content and propagation. 2. Detection methods: resonant bars; interferometric detectors (e.g., LIGO, Virgo); space-based detectors (LISA); pulsar timing arrays. 3. Astrophysical and cosmological sources: black-hole and neutron-star binaries; continuous sources (spinning neutron stars); supernovae; stochastic backgrounds from early Universe and astrophysical populations. 4. Waveforms: introduction to post-Newtonian theory and numerical relativity; spectra of stochastic backgrounds. 5. Data analysis and interpretation: signal processing (matched filtering, time-frequency domain methods); detection statistics; Bayesian parameter inference; multimessenger astronomy.
Resources
Lecture Notes
Slides, some detailed notes, example computer code
Literature
Textbook excerpts, journal articles
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 30
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Gravitational Waves |
|
2 h weekly |
| exercise | Gravitational Waves |
|
1 h weekly |