One hundred years ago, Albert Einstein produced one of the greatest intellectual achievements in physics, the theory of general relativity. In general relativity, spacetime is dynamic. It can be warped into a black hole. Accelerating masses create ripples in spacetime known as gravitational waves (GWs) that carry energy away from the source. Recent advances in detector sensitivity led to the first direct detection of gravitational waves in September 2015. This was a landmark achievement in human discovery and heralded the birth of the new field of gravitational wave astronomy.
The mission of the ARC Centre of Excellence for Gravitational Wave Discovery (OzGrav) is to capitalise on the historic first detections of gravitational waves to understand the extreme physics of black holes and warped spacetime, and to inspire the next generation of Australian scientists and engineers through this new window on the Universe. The Centre brings together the Australian pulsar and gravitational-wave communities in a focused national program. Through this centre Australian scientists and students have the opportunity to fully participate in gravitational wave astronomy on an international stage.
OzGrav is funded by a $31.3 million grant from the Australian Research Council (ARC), with additional support from OzGrav nodes and partners.
Our Vision
To pursue exceptional research & scientific discovery.
OzGrav will cement Australia’s position as an international leader in gravitational wave research.To provide world–class research training & leadership. Our postdoctoral fellows and students will be provided with high-quality supervision, and our career development programme will ensure researchers are equipped for successful careers in both academia and industry.
To inspire young people to take up careers in science & technology.
OzGrav Education & Public Outreach programmes will inspire and educate the general population about the nature of our Universe and explain how the scientific method works and can be trusted.