Canny Algorithm: A New Estimator for Primordial Non-Gaussianities

TL;DR

This paper introduces the use of the Canny edge detection algorithm as a novel estimator for primordial non-Gaussianities in the cosmic microwave background, showing promising preliminary results.

Contribution

It presents a new application of the Canny algorithm for detecting primordial non-Gaussianities in CMB data, demonstrating its potential effectiveness.

Findings

Achieved a 3σ distinction between non-Gaussian and Gaussian maps in simulations.

High-resolution CMB data can significantly improve the sensitivity of the Canny estimator.

Preliminary tests indicate the method's promise for future cosmological studies.

Abstract

We utilize the Canny edge detection algorithm as an estimator for primordial non-Gaussianities. In preliminary tests on simulated sky patches with a window size of 57 degrees and multipole moments $l$ up to 1024, we find a $3\sigma$ distinction between maps with local non-Gaussianity $f_{NL}=350$ (or $f_{NL}=-700$) and Gaussian maps. We present evidence that high resolution CMB studies will strongly enhance the sensitivity of the Canny algorithm to non-Gaussianity, making it a promising technique to estimate primordial non-Gaussianity.