Long-lived inverse chirp signals from core collapse in massive scalar-tensor gravity

TL;DR

This paper explores how massive scalar-tensor gravity theories can produce long-lived inverse chirp gravitational wave signals during stellar core collapse, potentially detectable by current LIGO-Virgo detectors, indicating deviations from general relativity.

Contribution

It introduces the impact of a scalar field mass on gravitational wave signals from core collapse, highlighting new detectable signatures of alternative gravity theories.

Findings

Massive scalar fields can significantly amplify gravitational wave signals.

Long-lived inverse chirp signals are predicted in scalar-tensor theories.

Potential detectability of these signals with existing gravitational wave observatories.

Abstract

This letter considers stellar core collapse in massive scalar--tensor theories of gravity. The presence of a mass term for the scalar field allows for dramatic increases in the radiated gravitational wave signal. There are several potential smoking gun signatures of a departure from general relativity associated with this process. These signatures could show up within existing LIGO--Virgo searches.