Indian scientists played a pivotal role in gravitational waves discovery

In a stunning discovery, scientists have confirmed the existence of gravitational waves, which Albert Einstein had predicted almost 100 years back. Indian scientists also played a pivotal role in the path-breaking discovery.

Several institutes, including Institute of Plasma Research in Gandhinagar, Inter University Centre for Astronomy in Pune and Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology in Indore were involved in the research.

Indian scientists were mostly involved in data analysis. India is also one of the countries where an advanced gravitational lab is being set up for further research.

According to the Times of India, the scientists from India confirmed that the observed signals were in sync with Einstein’s theory of relativity. Besides, they also helped in analysing response of the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) detector to signals.

The Indian scientists also estimated the radiation of power/energy during the process. Two of the Indian scientists involved were Bala Iyer and Sanjeev Dhurandhar.

While a group led by Bala Iyer of worked on the mathematical calculations, another developed data analysis technique under Sanjeev Dhurandhar.

The Indian scientists also worked on searching for a possible electromagnetic counterpart using optical telescopes.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also lauded Indian scientists for their contribution to the discovery.