A Bayesian approach to multi-messenger astronomy: identification of gravitational-wave host galaxies

Fan, X., Messenger, C. and Heng, I. S. (2014) A Bayesian approach to multi-messenger astronomy: identification of gravitational-wave host galaxies. Astrophysical Journal, 795(43), 795. (doi: 10.1088/0004-637X/795/1/43)

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Abstract

We present a general framework for incorporating astrophysical information into Bayesian parameter estimation techniques used by gravitational wave data analysis to facilitate multi-messenger astronomy. Since the progenitors of transient gravitational wave events, such as compact binary coalescences, are likely to be associated with a host galaxy, improvements to the source sky location estimates through the use of host galaxy information are explored. To demonstrate how host galaxy properties can be included, we simulate a population of compact binary coalescences and show that for ~8.5% of simulations within 200 Mpc, the top 10 most likely galaxies account for a ~50% of the total probability of hosting a gravitational wave source. The true gravitational wave source host galaxy is in the top 10 galaxy candidates ~10% of the time. Furthermore, we show that by including host galaxy information, a better estimate of the inclination angle of a compact binary gravitational wave source can be obtained. We also demonstrate the flexibility of our method by incorporating the use of either the B or K band into our analysis.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Messenger, Dr Christopher and Heng, Professor Ik Siong and Fan, Dr Xilong
Authors: Fan, X., Messenger, C., and Heng, I. S.
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Physics and Astronomy
Research Centre:College of Science and Engineering > School of Physics and Astronomy > Institute for Gravitational Research
Journal Name:Astrophysical Journal
Publisher:IOP Publishing
ISSN:0004-637X
ISSN (Online):1538-4357

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