If you succeed and GW astronomy is established, what would be solved ?

First of all, we would need to examine the theory of general relativity. For example, testing of general relativity by observing light bending around the edge of the Sun or the gradual shift of the orbit of the planet Mercury around the Sun have both confirmed that general relativity is valid under weak gravitational fields. However, under a strong gravitational field, the validity of general relativity has not yet been confirmed. When very dense and heavy stars such as neutron stars collide, the collision takes place and GWs generate under a strong gravitational field. By observing GWs in such conditions, we may be able to determine the reliability of the theory of general relativity.

In addition, the structure or condition of neutron stars has not been fully understood. There is a possibility of solving this by observing the waveforms of GWs at the moment of collision. We are more likely to understand the hardness or composition of a star when we understand the impact it makes when it hits another star - is it soft and pliable or hard and unbending? Furthermore, if we can detect a GW made long ago, when the universe was young, we may be able to better understand the mechanics of the Big Bang.

How did you become involved in this project ?

I have been interested in science since I was young, and majored in physics at university. As I continued studying, I began to think that I wanted to experiment and see something through a device I created myself. I eventually came to the conclusion that astronomy was the place for me.

When I had to choose a project in university, I was also interested in X-ray astronomy or gamma ray astronomy, but I wondered whether there would be anything new left to discover by the time I got involved. For that reason, GWs seemed attractive since they were not established as a field of astronomy. It seemed fun to have the possibility of playing an active role in this field, where everything I tried would be new.

Isn't it true that detection of GWs would be Nobel Prize-worthy ?

I appreciate that people are expecting so much of this field. We have not proven anything yet and there is so much ahead of us to overcome before we reach our goal. I'm very happy just to be able to head toward our goal, overcoming each individual challenge.

It was 1916 when the existence of GWs was first predicted, and by the late 1960's, observations had begun. For researchers who started observations then, it has already been more than 30 years. Some people must be thinking: "It's been too long. GWs, show yourself now, please!" However, when large-scale detectors around the world start to operate and GWs are actually detected, they will blossom into a giant field of study. I'm confident that day is near.

• "National Astronomical Observatory of Japan" Official Site

Posted April 2005