Scottish scientists have loaded special equipment into LISA Pathfinder to test the Albert Einstein Theory. The equipment is used to detect ripples, which are low frequency gravitational wave effects that can be caused by the merging of two black holes. They are testing Einstein’s Theory of General Relativity. On 2nd December, the rocket carrying the kit developed by University of Glasgow researchers will take off. The equipment is the product of more than a decade of research and will travel in Dr. Harry Ward’s LISA Pathfinder spacecraft of the European Space Agency (ESA). This space probe will test technology required to launch the Evolved laser interferometer Space Antenna (eLISA), an ESA gravity wave observatory, in 2034.. ESA states that “LISA Pathfinder” will fly the concept of low frequency gravitational wave detection. It will place two test masses in near perfect gravity free fall, control their movement with unparalleled accuracy, and then lift off from Kourou Space Centre, French Guiana. In their search to find these ripples, Dr. Ward and his colleagues will send three satellites into space, each separated by several millions miles. Eight weeks after launch, the spacecraft will be in its operational orbit. It is approximately 1.5 km mile from Earth and heading towards the Sun. The Institute for Gravitational Research says that the spacecraft will be able to observe low-frequency gravitational waves sources such as extreme mass ratio spirals, inspiraling black holes and binary systems within our galaxy. Dr. Ward believes the mission will help them to find direct evidence for the ripples. Scottish scientists test the optical bench. LISA Pathfinder’s optical bench is the heart of technology demonstration mission. It will allow for the development of future gravitational wave detectors. Image: University of Glasgow. Dr. Ward said: “For over ten years, we have been very busy working on LISA Pathfinder. This is an exciting project that involves researchers from across Europe. It is both thrilling and frightening to be on the brink of witnessing it launch on its mission. I will have the opportunity to view it at the Kourou launch site. “The launch and continued development of our knowledge of the Universe through the LISA Pathfinder program marks a significant milestone for not only us but also for the European Space Agency and other European partners. This is an exciting time in the field. We look forward to the next phase of exploration of the gravitational universe. Video – LISA Pathfinder LISA Pathfinder’s title (Laser Interferometer Space Antenna) indicates the important role this mission has as a precursor. The mission’s purpose is to confirm the technology required to detect gravitational wave from space. Gravitational waves can improve our understanding of space and help us test Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity.
