Public lecture by Bill Unruh, The University of British Columbia
On February 11, 2016 it was announced that gravitational waves have been detected affecting an instrument on earth. In addition to the realization of a 100 year old prediction the astounding sensitivity of the detector demanded the approaching and overcoming of seemingly fundamental quantum limits on measuring the motion of 25Kg masses. Quantum mechanics is usually thought of applying only to the very small (zeptogrammes and nanometers). Here quantum mechanics plays a role in setting limits in the large (kilograms and kilometers). This talk will review what gravitational radiation is, how it is detected, the incredible sensitivity of the detectors, what was detected, and how quantum limits and their evasion lie at the heart of these detectors.
Tickets
Register for your complimentary tickets.
Parking
Visitor parking is available in lot M for $6.
Ticket holders must be in their seats no later than 15 minutes prior to the start of the lecture. After this time, guests in the waiting line will be invited into the theatre to fill any empty seat.