The detection of gravitational waves in the kHz band from black hole and neutron star systems in the universe requires laser interferometers with exceptional specifications to enable them to detect gravitational wave induced strains with amplitude ~ 10-24 on a scale of kilometers. Currently three advanced detectors are preparing for observational runs at sensitivity sufficient to have a high probability of first detection. 

Much effort is underway to define the next generation of instruments which will be even more sensitive. The sensitivity goals continue to drive innovation especially in optical technology, quantum opto-mechanics, and techniques for the suppression of thermal and quantum noise. 

This talk will introduce and review the GW spectrum, summarise the astrophysical goals of gravitational astronomy, and report on the current status of detectors. I will also report on a 5 week program at the Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics China, that focused on the planning of the next detectors for gravitational astronomy. 

David Blair is an experimental physicist. He developed the first southern hemisphere gravitational wave detector NIOBE, and the Sapphire Clock. In 1998 he led the development of a 50km2 site at Gingin, near Perth, Western Australia, for a proposed southern hemisphere laser interferometer gravitational wave detector.  He also led the creation of the Gravity Discovery Centre - a major public outreach centre for teaching Einsteinian Physics to schools and the general public.  The Australian International Gravitational Research Centre  at Gingin includes an 80m high optical power laser interferometer and  the 1m Zadko Robotic Telescope used for multi-messenger astronomy and gamma ray burst follow-up.

The Gingin Centre is part of Australia’s contribution to the LIGO Scientific Collaboration, an international collaboration in gravitational wave detection that includes more than 1000 physicists. Blair leads  the Science Education Enrichment Project and the Einstein-First education projects. This is a collaboration  focused on developing Einsteinian physics for the school curriculum. 

Blair has strong collaboration links with China and was convenor of the KITPC Program “The Next Detectors for Gravitational Wave Astronomy” in 2015.

In 2013 Blair was elected Fellow of the American Physical Society. In  2007 he won the  Western Australian Scientist of the Year Award. In 2005 World Year of Physics, Blair was awarded the ANZAAS Medal[3] as well as a WA Government Centre of Excellence Grant to develop the Australian International Gravitational Research Centre. In 2004 he won the Learning Links award of the Minister for Education and Training. He was awarded the 2003 National Medal for Community Service, the 2003 Centenary Medal for Promotion of Science and the 2003 Clunies Ross National Medal for Science and Technology. In 1995 Blair was awarded the Walter Boas Medal of the Australian Institute of Physics.