The LIGO and Virgo Detectors: Refining the Sensitivity

The Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) and its European counterpart, Virgo, have been instrumental in detecting gravitational waves. These observatories utilize incredibly precise laser interferometry to measure minuscule changes in the distance between mirrors separated by kilometers. Recent upgrades have significantly increased the sensitivity of these detectors, allowing them to “hear” fainter and more distant gravitational wave events. This enhanced sensitivity is crucial for expanding our understanding of the universe’s most powerful phenomena.

Beyond Binary Black Holes: A Wider Range of Sources

While LIGO and Virgo initially focused on the detection of