Following up the afterglow: strategy for X-ray observation triggered by gravitational wave events

TL;DR

This paper explores strategies for X-ray follow-up observations of gravitational wave events, proposing algorithms to optimize detection chances using the Einstein probe telescope.

Contribution

It introduces and evaluates two observation algorithms for early X-ray afterglow detection of gravitational wave events, focusing on the sequential observation method.

Findings

Sequential observation algorithm shows high detection potential.

Large field of view enhances detection probability.

Method is practical for implementation with upcoming telescopes.

Abstract

The multi-messenger observation of compact binary coalescence promises great scientific treasure. However, a synthetic observation from both gravitational wave and electromagnetic channels remains challenging. Relying on the day-to-week long macronova emission, GW170817 remains the only event with successful electromagnetic followup. In this manuscript, we explore the possibility of using the early stage X-ray afterglow to search for the electromagnetic counterpart of gravitational wave events. Two algorithms, the sequential observation and the local optimization are considered and applied to three simulated events. We consider the proposed Einstein probe as a candidate X-ray telescope. Benefiting from the large field of view and high sensitivity, we find that the sequential observation algorithm not only is easy to implement, but also promises a good chance of actual detection.