Coherent Bayesian analysis of inspiral signals

Document #:

LIGO-P070015-x0

Document type:

P - Publications

Abstract:

In this paper we present a Bayesian parameter estimation method for the analysis of interferometric gravitational wave observations of an inspiral of binary compact objects using data recorded simultaneously by a network of several interferometers at different sites. We consider neutron star or black hole inspirals that are modeled to 3.5 post-Newtonian (PN) order in phase and 2.5 PN in amplitude. Inference is facilitated using Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods that are adapted in order to efficiently explore the particular parameter space. Examples are shown to illustrate how and what information about the different parameters can be derived from the data. This study uses simulated signals and data with noise characteristics that are assumed to be defined by the LIGO and Virgo detectors operating at their design sensitivities. Nine parameters are estimated, including those associated with the binary system plus its location on the sky. We explain how this technique will be part of a detection pipeline for binary systems of compact objects with masses up to 20 {\rm M}_{\odot} , including cases where the ratio of the individual masses can be extreme.

Files in Document:

• P070015-00.pdf (385.2 kB)

Topics:

• Document Migration from the old DCC
• Public relations

Authors:

• Andrea Vicere
• Gianluca M. Guidi
• Christian Roever
• Nelson Christensen
• Renate Meyer

Notes and Changes:

Rev P070015-00-Z:
- Full document number: LIGO-P070015-00-Z
- Author(s): Nelson Christensen; Gianluca Guidi; Renate Meyer; Christian Rover; Andrea Vicere
- Document date: 2007-04-10
- Document received date: 2007-04-11
- Document entry date: 2007-04-11

Journal References:

Published in Class Quant Grav vol. 24 pg. S607-S615.

Publication Information:

http://www.iop.org/EJ/abstract/0264-9381/24/19/S23/