arXiv:2406.11926v1 Announce Type: new
Abstract: The non-linear dynamics of General Relativity leave their imprint on remnants of black hole mergers in the form of a recoil “kick”. The kick has profound astrophysical implications across the black hole mass range from stellar to super-massive. However, a robust measurement of the kick for generic binaries from gravitational-wave observations has proved so far to be extremely challenging. In this emph{letter}, we demonstrate the prospects of measuring black hole kicks through a multiband gravitational-wave network consisting of space mission LISA, the current earth-based detector network and a third-generation detector. For two distinct cases of remnant black hole kick (68 km/s, 1006 km/s) emerging from near identical pre-merger configuration of GW190521 — the first confirmed intermediate-mass black hole — we find that the multiband network will recover with 90% credible level the projection of the kick vector relative to the orbital plane within tens of km/s accuracy. Such precise measurement of the kick offer a new set of multi-messenger follow-ups and unprecedented tests of astrophysical formation channels.
Recent studies have shown that black hole mergers create a “kick” effect as a result of the non-linear dynamics of General Relativity. This kick has significant implications for astrophysics, spanning from stellar to super-massive black holes. However, accurately measuring this kick through gravitational-wave observations has proven to be extremely challenging.
In this letter, researchers present a potential solution: a multiband gravitational-wave network that combines the space mission LISA, the current earth-based detector network, and a third-generation detector. By utilizing this network, they demonstrate the prospects of accurately measuring black hole kicks.
The authors analyze two distinct cases of black hole kicks, with values of 68 km/s and 1006 km/s, respectively, emerging from a near-identical pre-merger configuration of GW190521. They find that the multiband network can recover the projection of the kick vector relative to the orbital plane within a tens of km/s accuracy at a 90% credible level.
This precise measurement of the kick opens up new opportunities for multi-messenger follow-ups, enabling scientists to study the astrophysical formation channels in unprecedented ways.
Roadmap for the Future
Challenges
- Technical Development: The successful implementation of a multiband gravitational-wave network requires significant technical development to synchronize data and observations from different detectors.
- Data Analysis: Developing robust algorithms and data analysis techniques to extract the kick information accurately is crucial.
- Integration: Integrating the space mission LISA with the existing detector network and the future third-generation detector poses logistical challenges that need to be overcome.
- Funding: Securing adequate funding to support the development, deployment, and maintenance of the multiband network is essential.
Opportunities
- Improved Understanding: Accurately measuring black hole kicks will provide valuable insights into the dynamics and formation of black hole mergers, enhancing our understanding of the universe.
- New Discoveries: The ability to study the kick opens doors to new discoveries and the possibility of detecting previously unknown astrophysical phenomena.
- Multi-messenger Follow-ups: Precise kick measurements enable scientists to coordinate observations across different wavelengths and messengers, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of black hole mergers and their aftermath.
- Testing Astrophysical Models: The availability of accurate kick measurements offers unprecedented opportunities to test and refine astrophysical formation models, shedding light on the processes that shape black hole populations.
The utilization of a multiband gravitational-wave network holds immense potential for accurately measuring black hole kicks and unlocking a wealth of scientific opportunities. Overcoming the technical, logistical, and funding challenges will be crucial for realizing this vision. The future of gravitational-wave astronomy is promising, and the proposed roadmap paves the way for groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in our understanding of black hole mergers and the universe at large.