MeerTRAP in the era of multi-messenger astrophysics

TL;DR

MeerTRAP is a real-time radio transient detection system on MeerKAT, enabling rapid multi-messenger follow-up and transient localization, significantly advancing multi-wavelength astrophysics research.

Contribution

This paper introduces the design, implementation, and operational highlights of MeerTRAP, a novel real-time transient detection system integrated with MeerKAT and MeerLICHT.

Findings

Successful detection of fast radio transients in real-time

Enhanced localization and identification of transients

Operational insights from 10 months of data collection

Abstract

Real-time detections of transients and rapid multi-wavelength follow-up are at the core of modern multi-messenger astrophysics. MeerTRAP is one such instrument that has been deployed on the MeerKAT radio telescope in South Africa to search for fast radio transients in real-time. This, coupled with the ability to rapidly localize the transient in combination with optical co-pointing by the MeerLICHT telescope gives the instrument the edge in finding and identifying the nature of the transient on short timescales. The commensal nature of the project means that MeerTRAP will keep looking for transients even if the telescope is not being used specifically for that purpose. Here, we present a brief overview of the MeerTRAP project. We describe the overall design, specifications and the software stack required to implement such an undertaking. We conclude with some science highlights that have been enabled by this venture over the last 10 months of operation.