Probing the Early Universe Using GW Observations - Lecture 2

Explore how gravitational wave observations can reveal secrets of the early universe in this lecture delivered by Chiara Caprini from CERN and the University of Geneva. Delve into the theoretical foundations and observational techniques that enable scientists to use gravitational waves as probes for understanding cosmological phenomena from the universe's earliest epochs. Learn about the connection between gravitational wave signatures and primordial processes, including phase transitions, cosmic strings, and other exotic phenomena that may have occurred in the early universe. Examine the current capabilities and future prospects of gravitational wave detectors in detecting these primordial signals. Understand how these observations complement traditional electromagnetic astronomy to provide new insights into fundamental physics and cosmology. This lecture forms part of the International Centre for Theoretical Sciences' Summer School on Gravitational-Wave Astronomy, specifically focusing on using gravitational wave observations for cosmological exploration.