Aasim Jan, UT-Austin

"Accuracy limitations of existing numerical relativity waveforms on the data analysis of future ground-based detectors"

Abstract: Numerical Relativity (NR) provides a complete solution to Einstein's non-linear field equations, generating gravitational waveforms that are often considered the most accurate representations. Being solved on computers, discretized versions of Einstein's equations are solved and as such, due to truncation errors, the extracted waveforms themselves are a source of bias. With updates to LIGO detectors and the expected launch of next-generation ground-based gravitational wave detectors in the next decade, we expect signal-to-noise ratios of binary black hole mergers to reach unprecedented levels. At such high signal-to-noise ratios, truncation errors will produce significant bias in parameter estimation. To maximize the science return from these detectors, we need to ensure that NR waveforms are accurate enough to yield unbiased parameter estimation. With that goal in mind, we assess the significance of errors due to finite resolution on parameter estimation and make predictions regarding the minimum NR resolution needed for future detectors.