Once LIGO has made its first gravitational wave detection, it can finally begin operation as a true observatory. For the first time astronomical observations can be performed outside of the electromagnetic spectrum, and we can learn a great deal more about compact objects (e.g. neutron stars, black holes) than possible using light alone. To be able to make these statements however, there must be a framework in place that is capable of characterizing the signals to the greatest extent that the data will allow. Bayesian parameter estimation methods satisfy this need by providing a means to determine the full multidimensional probability density function for the parameters of the system. In this talk I will give an introduction to gravitational waves, their sources, and characterization of these sources using Bayesian methods, with particular emphasis on Markov Chain Monte Carlo.
Wednesday, October 26th at Noon
Room F235, Technological Institute
