LIGO Hanford Observatory was added to Your Favorites!
West Richland, Washington
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In 2015, LIGO Hanford, along with its twin facility in Louisiana, made the first direct observation of gravitational waves, confirming a major prediction of Albert Einstein's general theory of relativity.
LIGO uses laser interferometry to measure minute changes in distance caused by passing gravitational waves, with precision down to a fraction of a proton's diameter.
The observatory's two arms are each 4 kilometers long, forming an L-shape that allows it to detect the tiny ripples in spacetime caused by gravitational waves.
LIGO Hanford collaborates with other observatories worldwide, including Virgo in Italy and KAGRA in Japan, to improve the detection and localization of gravitational wave sources.
The observatory offers free public tours, providing insights into the groundbreaking science conducted there and the technology used to detect gravitational waves.
LIGO Hanford engages with the community through educational programs and resources aimed at inspiring interest in science and technology among students and the general public.
