Project Overview
Laboratory Astrophysics of Gravitational Lensing
Department(s)
Physics and Astronomy
Abstract
This project entails the study of gravitational lensing in the laboratory using lasers and electro-optic devices. The goal is to mimic gravitational lensing of astrophysical objects (binary stars, bblack holes, cosmic strings) and observe the interference pattern they produce, which is not possible to observe with telescopes, but that would be possible for gravitational waves when images of these becomes possible. The work entails laboratory work with lasers and "spatial light modulators," which are electro-optic devices that can be programmed to deflect the light in a desired way, and in so doing, mimic gravitational lensing. The student will engage in hands-on alignment of opticla beams and programming the spatial light modulator. This work is expected to produce new information on gravitational lending that will be published in research journals and presented at professional meetings.
Student Qualifications
Having taken at least one year of physics courses.
Number of Student Researchers
1 student
Project Length
8 weeks
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