Gravitational wave: gamma-ray burst connections

Area of Science:

• Astrophysics
• Gravitational Wave Astronomy
• Detector Physics

Background:

• Decades of experimental research have led to the development of advanced gravitational wave (GW) detectors.
• Long-baseline interferometers like LIGO, GEO 600, VIRGO, and TAMA 300 are operational or nearing operation.
• Compact binary system coalescences are a primary predicted source of detectable GWs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current state of gravitational wave detector technology and its capabilities.
• To discuss the search for GW signals specifically associated with short gamma-ray bursts (GRBs).
• To outline future plans and prospects in gravitational wave astronomy.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing gravitational wave detector technologies (LIGO, GEO 600, VIRGO, TAMA 300).
• Analysis of astrophysical sources, particularly compact binary coalescences as progenitors of GRBs.
• Discussion of signal detection strategies and data analysis for GRB-associated GWs.

Main Results:

• Gravitational wave detection is on the cusp of realization after 35 years of research.
• Compact binary coalescences are identified as a key astrophysical source for GWs and potentially short GRBs.
• The paper reviews detector status and future search strategies.

Conclusions:

• Direct detection of gravitational waves from astrophysical events is imminent.
• The search for GWs from compact binary coalescences, linked to GRBs, is a major focus.
• Future advancements in detector technology and analysis will enhance GW astronomy.