In September 2025, the Department of Physics marked an extraordinary milestone: Ten years since the first gravitational wave detection. The Syracuse University Center for Gravitational Wave Astronomy and Astrophysics brought together a community of people interested in this subject to celebrate this breakthrough and shared where we're headed next.

The evening opened with remarks from Duncan Brown, Charles Brightman Professor of Physics and Syracuse University Vice President for Research. Stefan Ballmer, professor of physics and director of the Center, offered a moving remembrance of LIGO pioneer Rai Weiss. Professor Georgia Mansell took us on a journey through “Ten Years of Gravitational Wave Astrophysics: From GW150914 to Cosmic Explorer.”

A panel discussion followed, featuring Professors Stefan Ballmer, Alex Nitz, Duncan Brown, Georgia Mansell, Craig Cahillane and Steven Penn, who shared insights about the past decade's triumphs and the exciting discoveries still to come.

Students from the Gravitational Wave research group captured highlights from the celebration and shared them on their SyracuseGravity TikTok account. The College of Arts and Sciences covered the anniversary with a feature story.

Our students and faculty continue to develop cutting-edge technologies that help us deepen our understanding of the universe through gravitational wave observations. The American Physical Society TV produced a wonderful video showcasing the history of our gravitational wave research and what the future holds. Check it out to see the impact the Gravitational Waves Center is making on our understanding of the cosmos.