CAREER: Using Numerical Relativity as a Tool for Discovery: Astrophysics, Gravity and Education

由于激光干涉仪引力波天文台（LIGO）及其合作伙伴，引力波物理学即将成为一门观测驱动的科学。此外，数值相对论已经证明了它作为发现最强引力辐射源的工具的巨大潜力。该奖项将支持建立在引力波观测和数值相对论这两大支柱上的综合研究和教育计划。研究将集中在(1)将数据分析方法与从数值相对论模拟中得出的引力波源模型相结合；(2)开发下一代的引力波源模拟，以解释未来的事件。该奖项的广泛影响包括两个方面。(1)培养研究生运用数值相对论作为天体物理工具，成为引力波天文学新领域的领军人物。(2) PI将与LIGO Livingston实验室和路易斯安那州立大学Brigg Ullmer教授合作，在Ullmer博士设计的交互式信息亭中使用数值相对论模拟的视频。这些信息亭可以让人们动手了解引力波，计划位于路易斯安那州和亚特兰大。

Gravitational wave physics is on the verge of becoming an observation-driven science thanks to the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) and its partners. In addition, numerical relativity has already demonstrated its great potential as a tool of discovery for the strongest sources of gravitational radiation. This award will support an integrated program of research and education built upon these two pillars: gravitational wave observations and numerical relativity. The research will focus on (1) coupling data analysis methods to gravitational wave source models drawn from numerical relativity simulations, (2) developing the next generation of source simulations that will interpret future events. The broader impacts of this award include two components. (1) Graduate students will be trained to use numerical relativity as an astrophysical tool to prepare them to be leaders in the new field of gravitational wave astronomy. (2) The PI will collaborate with the LIGO Livingston Laboratory and Professor Brigg Ullmer of Louisiana State University to use video from numerical relativity simulations in an interactive kiosk designed by Dr. Ullmer. The kiosks allow for a hands-on approach to learning about gravitational waves and are planned to be located in Louisiana and Atlanta.