Scientists develop new approach to capture gravitational wave memory from supernovae

A study published in Physical Review Letters explores a new approach to detecting the gravitational wave memory effect, a phenomenon predicted by Einstein’s general relativity. This effect refers to the permanent change in distance between cosmic objects caused by a passing gravitational wave. Scientists suggest that existing gravitational wave observatories could catch this elusive signature, particularly from core-collapse supernovae (CCSN), which occur when stars more than ten times the mass of the Sun collapse and explode. Is.

Core-collapse supernovae produce gravitational waves with unique characteristics due to their changing quadrupole moments during collapse. According to reports, while the amplitude of these waves is smaller than that of signals from black holes or neutron star mergers, they provide important insights into stellar interiors. Unlike electromagnetic signals, which originate from the supernova’s surface, gravitational waves emanate from depth, offering a rare glimpse into the dynamics of a collapsing star.

Challenges of detecting supernova gravitational waves

Detecting gravitational waves from CCSNs has proven difficult due to their low amplitude, short period, and complex signature. These waves fall below the sensitivity limits of current high-frequency detectors such as advanced LIGO, the report said. However, studies indicate that low-frequency gravitational waves from CCSNs exhibit a “memory” effect. This effect arises from the anisotropic neutrino emission and motion of matter during collapse, leaving a non-zero gravitational disturbance.

According to reports, Colter J. of the University of Tennessee. The research team led by Richardson analyzed three-dimensional simulations of non-rotating CCSNs up to 25 solar masses using the Chimera model. Their findings revealed a distinct ramp-up in the gravitational wave signals characteristic of the memory. With matching filtering techniques, the team concluded that signals from 25 solar mass supernovae can be detected up to 10 kiloparsecs away, which is faster than existing is the range accessible by observatories.

Potential for future research

According to sources, Richardson highlighted the importance of the discovery of low-frequency gravitational waves and encouraged further investigation using the study’s methodology. Future research could focus on general merging events or improving detector sensitivity to refine the detection of memory signals.