Gravitational waves are ripples in spacetime that are emitted by certain types of astronomical objects, such as merging black holes or neutron stars. These waves were first predicted by Albert Einstein in his general theory of relativity, and were finally detected in 2015 by the LIGO (Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory) scientific collaboration. Gravitational waves provide a new way for astronomers to study the universe and can reveal information about some of the most extreme phenomena in the cosmos. The study of gravitational waves is a rapidly growing field of research with the potential to revolutionize our understanding of gravity and the universe.