Forecasting the detection capabilities of third-generation gravitational-wave detectors using GWFAST
Authors:
Iacovelli, Francesco; Mancarella, Michele; Foffa, Stefano; Maggiore, Michele (2022)
Abstract:
GWFAST is a novel Fisher-matrix code for gravitational-wave studies, tuned toward third-generation gravitational-wave detectors such as Einstein Telescope and Cosmic Explorer. The code is used to perform a comprehensive study of the capabilities of ET alone, and of a network made by ET and two CE detectors, as well as to provide forecasts for the forthcoming O4 run of the LIGO/Virgo/KAGRA Collaboration. Binary neutron stars, binary black holes and neutron star-black hole binaries are considered, and basic metrics such as the distribution of signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), the accuracy in the reconstruction of various parameters (including distance, sky localization, masses, spins and, for neutron stars, tidal deformabilities), and the redshift distribution of the detections for different thresholds in SNR and different levels of accuracy in localization and distance measurement are computed. The expected distribution and properties of “golden events” are examined, with especially large values of the SNR. Special attention is paid to the dependence of the results on astrophysical uncertainties and on various technical details (such as choice of waveforms, or the threshold in SNR), and a comparison with other Fisher codes in the literature is presented.
Spiral Dance of Black Holes. Image credit: LIGO/T. Pyle.
