GW Seminar: Numerical Relativity and the Evolution of Compact Binary Spacetimes

The burgeoning field of gravitational wave astronomy relies crucially on modeling signals from astrophysical systems of interest. Close to the merger of compact objects numerical relativity plays a crucial role in this modeling. Numerical relativity is, in many cases, moreover the only tool we have to understand strong-field, dynamical spacetimes. In my talk I will give an introduction to the subject, focusing on what can presently be achieved. To avoid giving the impression that 'everything is solved' I will also spend some time discussing important open problems.