Planned search for LIGO-GBM coincidence in the first advanced LIGO data run

TL;DR

This paper outlines the plan for detecting coincident signals between LIGO gravitational waves and Fermi gamma-ray bursts during the first advanced LIGO observing run, aiming to identify electromagnetic counterparts to gravitational wave events.

Contribution

It presents the methodology and planning for a joint search for gravitational wave and gamma-ray burst coincidences in the first advanced LIGO data, highlighting the scientific potential of such detections.

Findings

Expected LIGO range for neutron star inspirals is about 60 Mpc.

The planned search could confirm electromagnetic counterparts to gravitational wave events.

Potential to measure the relative speed of photons and gravitons.

Abstract

In the fall of 2015 the first scientific observing run (O1) of the advanced LIGO detectors will be conducted. Based on the recent commissioning progress at the LIGO Hanford and Livingston sites, the gravitational wave detector range for a neutron star binary inspiral is expected to be of order 60 Mpc. We describe here our planning for an O1 search for coincidence between a LIGO gravitational wave detection and a gamma-ray signal from the Fermi Gamma-ray Burst Monitor. Such a coincidence would constitute measurement of an electromagnetic counterpart to a gravitational wave signal, with significant corresponding scientific benefits, including revealing the central engine powering the gamma-ray burst, enhanced confidence in the event as a genuine astrophysical detection, and a determination of the relative speed of the photon and graviton.