Probing the Universe with gravitational waves: from cutting-edge technology to astronomy

The enhanced Laser Interferometer Gravitational Observatory (eLIGO) will begin taking science data 24 hours per day, 7 days per week from mid-2009. Its increased sensitivity may well permit the first direct detection of gravitational waves. We will search LIGO data for these elusive signals with, for the first time, a realistic chance of success. We will carry out directed searches of supernova remnants, pulsar wind nebulae and globular clusters, using intelligent template bank design. Our experimental program will develop quantum technologies for application to future detectors and push towards the limits of opto-mechanical sensing. Outcomes will impact on macroscopic quantum science and precision metrology.