Improving the Sensitivity of Advanced LIGO Using Noise Subtraction

TL;DR

This paper introduces a robust, parallelizable noise subtraction method for Advanced LIGO data, significantly improving its sensitivity to gravitational waves by effectively removing various noise sources, thereby increasing detection prospects.

Contribution

The paper presents a novel, adaptable noise subtraction technique that enhances LIGO's sensitivity by robustly removing linearly coupled noise sources in a parallelizable manner.

Findings

Achieved a 30% increase in sensitivity during the second observing run.

Successfully subtracted noise from beam jitter, calibration lines, and mains power.

Demonstrated improved detection capability for compact binary systems.

Abstract

This paper presents an adaptable, parallelizable method for subtracting linearly coupled noise from Advanced LIGO data. We explain the features developed to ensure that the process is robust enough to handle the variability present in Advanced LIGO data. In this work, we target subtraction of noise due to beam jitter, detector calibration lines, and mains power lines. We demonstrate noise subtraction over the entirety of the second observing run, resulting in increases in sensitivity comparable to those reported in previous targeted efforts. Over the course of the second observing run, we see a 30% increase in Advanced LIGO sensitivity to gravitational waves from a broad range of compact binary systems. We expect the use of this method to result in a higher rate of detected gravitational-wave signals in Advanced LIGO data.