Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: IE
Context: Scientists have found evidence suggesting the presence of a continuous background of gravitational waves in the universe.
About Gravitational Waves:
- Gravitational waves are disturbances in the fabric of spacetime caused by the movement of large objects, such as the collision of two black holes.
- The waves were first detected in 2015, but this new research indicates that multiple gravitational waves constantly deform and reshape spacetime, influencing the motion of celestial bodies.
Findings:
Scientists have discovered a ‘background hum’ rumbling throughout the universe. It confirms the presence of low-frequency (long-wavelengths) gravitational waves, thought to be constantly rolling through space noise.
India’s Giant Metre wave Radio Telescope (GMRT, Pune) was among the world’s six large telescopes that played a vital role in providing evidence. The other 5 are located in Germany, the UK, France, Italy and the Netherlands.
