Since the groundbreaking detection of gravitational waves in 2015 and the multi-messenger observation of a binary neutron star merger in 2017, gravitational-wave (GW) astronomy has progressed rapidly, yielding a wealth of scientific insights in astrophysics, cosmology, and fundamental physics. The international GW network, LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA, has already detected over two hundred sources, and efforts are underway to upgrade existing detectors and extend their astrophysical capabilities. In collaboration with Paris (STEP’UP) and Pisa Universities, these special lectures will focus on key topics in gravitational wave physics, designed to provide a solid foundation in the field.
Mornings will be dedicated to lectures while several afternoons will cover the discussion of foundational papers in the field.
Topics covered include:
- the configuration of interferometric detectors
- quantum squeezing techniques
- the challenges posed by low-frequency detection gravitational-waves for third-generation detectors (Einstein Telescope and Cosmic Explorer)
- multi-messenger astrophysics
- cosmology with gravitational waves.
When : March 16 to March 20 2026 – exact schedule below
Where : The courses will be conducted on Zoom.
These lectures upon completion will bring 3 points for your doctoral training program. Lectures are given in English.
Program & lecturers :
- Mon 16th 9h-12h – room 631B – Danièle Steer – Gravitational Waves Theory
- Tues 17th 9h-12h – room 454A – Matteo Barsuglia, Eleonora Capocasa – Detector configurations, optics and squeezing
- Tues 17th 14h30-16h – room 454A – Matteo Barsuglia – Discussions on GW150914 and GW170817
- Wed 18th 9h-12h – room 646A – Francesco Fidecaro – The challenge of low frequency and the new detectors
- Thu 19th 9h-12h – room 631B – Danièle Steer – Cosmology with Gravitational Waves
- Thu 19th 14h30-16h – room 631B – Papers Discussion
- Fri 20th 9h-12h – room 646 A – Massimiliano Razzano – Gravitational Waves and Multi-Messenger Astronomy
All rooms are located in the Condorcet (APC) building
Credits upon completion : 3
How to sign up ? : As usual for 2025-2026 lecture registrations here