Triangulation of gravitational wave sources with a network of detectors

Abstract

There is significant benefit to be gained by pursuing multimessenger astronomy with gravitational wave and electromagnetic observations. In order to undertake electromagnetic follow-ups of gravitational wave signals, it will be necessary to accurately localize them in the sky. As gravitational wave detectors are not inherently pointing instruments, localization will occur primarily through triangulation with a network of detectors. The expected timing accuracy for observed signals and the consequences for localization are investigated. In addition, the effect of systematic uncertainties in the waveform and calibration of the instruments on the localization of sources is discussed. Illustrative results of timing and localization accuracy as well as systematic effects for coalescing binary waveforms are provided. © IOP Publishing Ltd and Deutsche Physikalische Gesellschaft.