Novel Gravity Probe B Gravitational Wave Detection

Abstract

The Gravity Probe B (GP-B) satellite experiment will measure the precession of on-board gyroscopes to extraordinary accuracy. Such precessions are predicted by General Relativity (GR), and one component of this precession is the `frame-dragging' or Lense-Thirring effect, which is caused by the rotation of the earth, and the other is the geodetic effect. A new theory of gravity predicts, however, a second and much larger `frame-dragging' or vorticity induced spin precession. This spin precession component will also display the effects of novel gravitational waves which are predicted by the new theory of gravity, and which have already been seen in several experiments. The magnitude and signature of these gravitational wave induced precession effects is given for comparison with the GP-B experimental data.