Gravitational Wave Astronomy

This research line focuses on advancing gravitational-wave (GW) astronomy by contributing to the upcoming fourth (O4) and fifth (O5) observing runs of the LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA (LVK) network, as well as preparing for next-generation detectors such as the Einstein Telescope (ET). The research spans several key areas, including theoretical modeling, numerical simulations, data analysis, and multi-messenger follow-up.

Electromagnetic (EM) Follow-Up of GW Sources

Multi-messenger astronomy has become a crucial component of GW science, as demonstrated by the detection of GW170817 and its subsequent EM counterparts across the spectrum. This project continues collaborations with leading EM observatories, including NOEMA (radio), Gran Telescopio Canarias (optical/NIR), and Calar Alto (NIR), to monitor potential EM counterparts to GW events. The team will focus on BNS and NS-BH mergers, as well as potential CCSN GW sources.

Development of New GW Pipelines for O4 and Future Searches

As members of the Virgo Collaboration, the group is actively involved in the development of new GW detection and parameter estimation pipelines for O4. The research will focus on improving the detection of burst sources using machine learning and total-variation regularization methods. The group will also contribute to the development of the TEOBResumS pipeline for eccentric BBH mergers and the pyGRB pipeline for GW-GRB multi-messenger searches.

Participation in Advanced Virgo and Einstein Telescope (ET) Projects

The team plays an important role in Virgo, contributing to data analysis, detector characterization, and outreach. The group participates in service tasks such as monitoring detector performance and responding to candidate GW triggers. Additionally, the team is actively involved in the Einstein Telescope (ET) initiative, co-leading the transient GW division and coordinating outreach efforts. ET is expected to revolutionize GW astronomy by detecting stellar-mass CBCs at redshifts of ∼100 with unprecedented sensitivity.

This research line aligns with LVK priorities and the long-term vision of GW astronomy. By improving theoretical models, enhancing numerical simulations, refining data analysis techniques, and fostering multi-messenger observations, the project aims to maximize the scientific output of the upcoming observing runs. These efforts will contribute to a deeper understanding of compact objects, the physics of extreme environments, and fundamental aspects of gravity and cosmology.